Rusia în contextul pandemiei
Russia in the context of the pandemic

Summary/Abstract: Although the COVID-19 epidemic is still wreaking havoc in Russia, some conclusions regarding on how it may transform the Russian political system can be drawn. It is important to note that these transformations began before the onset of the coronavirus crisis. The main objective of the reform is not only to ensure the longevity of Putin’s position, but also to extend the life of the system, by adapting it to the new realities – its erosion and the declining support among the population. At the same time, Russia’s aspirations to a Great Power status are halted due to its economic and technological deficiencies, and the new dynamics of the international system require an adaptation of its foreign policy. There are two possible scenarios that derive from this reality. The first would imply a reorientation of the regime towards solving interior problems, which could mean a reduction of Russia’s external assertiveness. But, on the other hand, it cannot be ruled out that, in the context of the regime’s erosion, Kremlin might need to gain new victories abroad in order to legitimize itself domestically. In any case, Moscow’s narrative for patriotic mobilization will not lose its intensity, nor will the disinformation and manipulation campaigns, which are less expensive comparing to military campaigns.

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