Russia, an outcast on the international scene ?

Description

Russia’s isolation on the international stage is a central theme in the sanctions imposed in response to its aggression against Ukraine. This isolation stems from a series of economic, social and military measures mainly decided by Western powers, aimed at forcing the Kremlin to change its behaviour.

Economic sanctions, such as the ban on the export of high-tech goods and the import of raw materials, are aimed at weakening the Russian economy. These measures are designed to inflict more damage on Russia than on Europe, thus demonstrating the determination of Western countries to exert significant pressure on the Russian government. In addition, restrictions on investments and loans in the energy sectors reinforce this isolation strategy, making economic operations with Russia increasingly risky for foreign companies. Russia’s isolation is also reflected in its exclusion from certain international financial systems, such as the freezing of oligarchs’ assets and the exclusion of Russian banks from SWIFT. These actions are aimed at cutting Russia off from global financial markets, thereby limiting its ability to conduct essential economic transactions.

However, this desire for isolation is not shared by all. Some countries, such as Japan, are taking a more cautious approach, emphasizing that Russia’s isolation is a complex process, influenced by various economic and political interests. Despite this, Russia’s image as an international pariah is reinforced, and the country faces increasing pressure to end its military actions in Ukraine.

This special report examines the strategies and resources mobilized by the Kremlin to circumvent this desire to isolate Russia. These levers used by Russia reveal opportunities, limitations, and doubts for Russian diplomacy and power.