Understanding Russian Perception of Their Country's Global Ambitions and Influence

For decades, the term 'Russian Federation' has been associated with expansive ambitions and a broader vision of Russia's influence. Vladimir Putin's statement, 'Russia’s borders don’t end anywhere,' reflects a deep-seated belief in Russia's global reach and interests.

Russia's Historical Expansion and Invasion

For decades, the Russian Federation has seen its interests extend well beyond its internationally recognized borders. This modus operandi can be traced back to the times of Joseph Stalin and the KGB, where unrest in border regions often led to invasions aimed at 'fixing' the problems. The KGB school, which continues to produce influential Russian officials, played a pivotal role in this.

Under Boris Yeltsin, Russia invaded Moldova in 1992 and started the First Chechen War in 1994. Putin's tenure marked a shift in rhetoric and policy, where the idea of 'Russia’s greatness' and the slogan 'The Russian world from Lisbon to Vladivostok' became more prominent. This concept has been foundational to Russia's official doctrine of international relations.

The 'Russian World' Doctrine

The 'Russian world' doctrine posits that Russia is a separate civilization, distinct from both the West and the East. This paradigm has been a cornerstone of Putin's promotion of Russian imperialistic chauvinism. Under his leadership, this vision has often been realized through actions that border on plunder.

In Putin’s regime, the rights of conquered territories are seen as the natural due of the conqueror. This approach has been criticized for its lack of democratic values and for the suffering it has caused to neighboring nations. The anti-democratic coup, which many attribute to the beginning of Putin's rise to power, can be traced back to his official appointment as Yeltsin's 'successor' in 1999.

Challenges Ahead for Russia

The future of Russia is uncertain, and any shift towards a more peaceful and cooperative international stance will require addressing the root causes of its current policies. The consequences of Russia's aggressive actions have led to significant international backlash, and there is a growing need for Russia to reevaluate its position on the global stage.

Without addressing the underlying ambitions and the doctrines that drive them, any hope for healing and rehabilitation remains slim. The path towards a more peaceful and cooperative Russia lies in acknowledging the past and working towards a vision of a global community that respects the sovereignty and dignity of all nations.