Which Factors, Domestic or Foreign, are More Important in Shaping Russian Foreign Policy during the Putin Era?
Keywords:
Russian Foreign Policy, Putin Era, Messianic Consciousness, Great Power StatusAbstract
This paper explores the factors influencing Russian foreign policy during the Putin era, focusing on whether domestic or foreign elements play a more significant role. It argues that Russia’s foreign policy is deeply rooted in its national ideology, shaped by historical experiences, Orthodox Christianity, and the concept of Russia as the "Third Rome." Putin’s policies emphasize restoring Russia’s great power status through assertive diplomacy, leveraging domestic support rooted in messianic consciousness, and counteracting Western influence, especially in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) region. The paper concludes that domestic cultural and historical factors have been more influential than external pressures in shaping Putin’s foreign policy.
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