Russia's Foreign Policy in Crisis: Losing Allies and Growing Dependent on China.

An Analysis of Russian Foreign Policy

According to UATV: Political analyst Igor Chalenko examines the collapse of Russia's foreign policy system, which is leading to its international isolation, growing dependence on China, and a loss of influence in global affairs. A key event highlighting this situation was the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, which dealt a critical blow to the Kremlin's foreign strategy. Iran, which joined the BRICS bloc two years ago, had become a significant international player, and its loss could substantially weaken Russia's position. This analysis comes amid Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine, which has accelerated its geopolitical realignment.

Economic Vulnerability and Strategic Challenges

Moscow found itself in a position where it was forced to pay between $100,000 and $110,000 for Iranian 'Shahed' drones, a price significantly above their original cost. Igor Chalenko emphasizes that

'at the peak of their cost, imported 'Shaheds' were far from $20,000 or $40,000'

—a fact that points to Russia's economic vulnerability. Furthermore, the Kremlin has not initiated any BRICS statements since Iran's accession, indicating a lack of proactive foreign policy from Moscow.

Chalenko also notes that

'Russia will lose the matrix of alliances that was formed over decades'

, signaling a threat to the country's long-term strategic interests. In this context, he observes that 'Putin lost the European market, and China did not help compensate for it,' further confirming Russia's international isolation. Thus, these new circumstances cast doubt on the Kremlin's ability to maintain its foreign policy positions and global influence.

The loss of Iran as an ally and economic dependence on China underscore the serious challenges facing Russian foreign policy. These events point to a gradual erosion of Moscow's influence on the world stage, which could have lasting consequences for its strategic interests. Given these factors, Russia will have to reconsider its foreign policy and seek new approaches to restore its global standing.