Introduction

This book offers the first in-depth analysis of the evolution of Russia’s relations with the Global South across political, military-political, and economic domains. Though formally part of the Global North, Russia has, since 2007, increasingly positioned itself as an independent—and often opposing—actor to the West, aligning more closely with the Global South. This volume explores Russia’s foreign policy during the 2022–2024 war with Ukraine and confrontation with the West, analyzing it at both global and regional levels.

Strategies and Tools

The contributors propose models for understanding the Kremlin’s shifting strategies, including doctrinal orientations, redefinitions of national interest, and the role of personal leadership. The book also examines the tools of Russian foreign policy in the evolving geopolitical context.

Key Areas of Focus

It highlights key areas such as Russia’s efforts to reshape BRICS as a geo-economic counterweight to the West, its renewed activism in Sub-Saharan Africa, complex Middle Eastern diplomacy, and its strategic turn to Latin America—all within the broader pivot to the Global South.

Historical Context and Audience

Placed in long-term historical context—from the medieval era to the 2000s—the book combines theoretical and applied analysis. It is written for a multidisciplinary audience and is suitable for academic and classroom use.