No more crutches: Russia’s neighbors must now stand on their own

No empire, no charity: Moscow redefines its role in Eurasia

As global instability deepens, Russia’s role in Eurasia – and the nature of its ties with neighboring states – is once again in sharp focus. Moscow is not driven by a mission to dominate its neighbors or enforce a privileged position over them. But it must ensure that future dependencies – economic, political, or security-related – do not come at the expense of its own national interests. 

This delicate balance is now being tested.

The summer of 2025 has brought fresh tension to Eurasia. The worsening crisis surrounding Iran could easily spill over, affecting international cooperation and security throughout the region. Meanwhile, relations between Russia and long-standing partners such as Armenia – both a formal military and economic ally – are showing visible strain. Even frictions with Azerbaijan, though less dramatic, signal that the geopolitical fabric of southern Eurasia is shifting.

Amid this turbulence, Russia’s neighbors face a new set of choices. The ongoing standoff between Russia and the West, combined with uncertainty in the global economy, presents both risks and openings. These smaller states now must navigate a rapidly changing landscape – one where traditional alliances feel less reliable and new poles of influence emerge. 

Despite these pressures, Russia’s influence remains evident. In July, Moscow formally recognized the Taliban government in Afghanistan, a move reflecting both realism and strategic calculation. While the United States still holds significant global clout, particularly through its Western military alliances and presence in the Middle East, Russia, China, and India continue to shape the regional dynamics of Eurasia.

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This is especially clear in the South Caucasus and Central Asia. These nations, already established as independent and sovereign players, are adapting to new realities – economic integration, demographic change, and environmental pressure. A notable example is the growing cohesion among Central Asia’s five republics. Their cooperation may well enhance their regional agency in the years to come. Russia views this development positively. A more resilient Central Asia – capable of solving its own challenges – contributes to overall regional stability and makes cooperation more effective.

Nonetheless, new challenges are on the horizon. 

First, the Middle East will remain volatile. The outcome of the Israel-Iran confrontation remains uncertain, but its destabilizing effects are already rippling outward. Türkiye’s foreign policy, often unpredictable, adds further complexity. For countries like Armenia and Azerbaijan, these dynamics will pose a constant strategic test.

Second, the energy economies of Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan remain vulnerable to global market shocks. A sustained drop in oil and gas prices – or the depletion of reserves – could threaten both countries with domestic turmoil. Managing this risk will demand careful economic planning and diversification.

Third, climate change is poised to hit Central Asia hard. Rising temperatures and water shortages, paired with demographic pressures, may evolve into a genuine crisis within the next decade. 

Fourth, and perhaps most profoundly, Russia’s neighbors are not insulated from the deepening instability of global politics and economics. Larger powers may weather volatility thanks to reserves and institutional strength. Smaller states may not be so lucky. They are aware of these vulnerabilities – and they are preparing for them.

This, in turn, raises the question: what kind of relationship should these countries build with Russia?

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Geography, history, and shared infrastructure mean that Russia remains a central power in the former Soviet space. But the nature of this “space” is evolving. The past three decades have seen the emergence of distinct, sovereign states with their own political trajectories. The idea of a unified “post-Soviet” region is fading. Cooperation now depends less on shared ideology or past structures, and more on pragmatic interest. 

Russia does not seek to impose its will on these nations. But it must avoid any arrangement that allows others to benefit from Russian support – economic, security-related, or political – without reciprocity. This would be not only unfair, but strategically dangerous.

In this light, the political regimes of neighboring countries are not of primary concern. What matters is that their partnerships with Russia do not undermine its sovereignty or long-term stability. Moscow welcomes genuine cooperation – built on mutual interest and equality – but cannot allow itself to become a crutch for governments unable or unwilling to manage their internal affairs.

That principle applies across the board: in the South Caucasus, in Central Asia, and in Eastern Europe. What’s required is a consistent, firm, and future-oriented approach to regional policy – one that encourages integration where possible but is unafraid to protect Russian interests when necessary.

Of course, breaking away from old habits and assumptions will not be easy. The legacy of the Soviet Union still shapes expectations on both sides. Many governments in the region continue to treat Russia as a default provider of security and economic support – even while forging closer ties with other powers. This dual approach is unsustainable. 

It’s time for a new model – one where Russia is not the guarantor of regional balance but a stakeholder among equals. A partner, not a patron. In such a system, cooperation would no longer rest on sentiment or historical inertia, but on clearly defined, reciprocal benefits.

To succeed in this, Russia must act with strategic patience and clarity of purpose. It must support its neighbors where doing so serves mutual goals. But it must also draw clear boundaries – ensuring that its resources, prestige, and geopolitical position are not squandered on arrangements that yield little in return.

In a world tilting towards greater uncertainty and multipolar competition, Russia’s role in its own neighborhood remains vital. But it must be a role shaped not by nostalgia or charity, but by realism, prudence, and a firm defense of national interest.

Only then can lasting, balanced partnerships emerge in the vast, shifting space of Eurasia.

This article was first published by Valdai Discussion Club, translated and edited by the RT team.