Analyzing Singapore’s Harsh and Severe Behavior in the Russia–Ukraine Conflict from an Idealist Perspective

Abstract

On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale military offensive against Ukraine, which quickly attracted widespread attention from the international community. As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, ASEAN countries are becoming sharply divided over their stances toward Russia. Most countries remain neutral or silent, but Singapore is the only ASEAN member to publicly condemn and impose economic sanctions on Russia. This article, drawing on the idealist perspective of international relations theory, analyzes the ideological motivations behind Singapore's actions, arguing that its sanctions and condemnations primarily reflect idealistic principles such as respect for international norms, support for the international rule of law, opposition to the use of force to resolve disputes, advocacy of international institutions to maintain peace, and a focus on public opinion. The article further explores Singapore's strategic considerations within ASEAN and the international community, arguing that its actions reflect both the practical needs of a small state to safeguard its sovereignty and security and its desire to shape its international image, enhance regional leadership, and uphold international order through a moral stance. This research demonstrates the intertwined nature of idealism and realpolitik in Singapore's foreign policy, offering a new perspective on understanding the diplomatic choices of small states during major international crises.