Historian Sergey Radchenko examines Russia's consistent pursuit of Great Power status throughout its history, from the Russian Empire to today. In an interview with Al Jazeera, he discusses how this ambition shapes the Kremlin's political actions, particularly in relation to its invasion of Ukraine. Radchenko compares the current geopolitical landscape to a new Cold War, highlighting the rivalry between the U.S. and China, while pointing out that Russia's role is diminished. He suggests that the desire for recognition and legitimacy remains a driving force behind Russia's foreign policy today.
Radchenko emphasizes that Moscow's yearning for Great Power status is a main continuity in its foreign policy across historical regimes.
He notes that while Ukraine's invasion is largely about legitimacy, the current geopolitical climate resembles a competition not with the U.S., but with China.
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