Russia’s pivot to the East, prevalent through increased economic ties to China, solidifies the geopolitical theory that the world’s economic center of gravity is reverting back to Asia. Both India and China have considered establishing more direct trade routes and investing in the Russian Far East. Meanwhile, trade with the West has slowed. Backed by China, Russia’s patrol of the Arctic signals the development of a sea route across the Artic Sea, circumventing the Suez Canal and connecting Asian and Western ports. It is unlikely the West would benefit from this until a peace deal is met in Ukraine. Russia could also benefit from the effects of climate change, becoming a global leader in renewable energy and boosting its economy. Despite the country’s increased ties to North Korea, Asian countries are more welcoming of Russia than those in the West, giving Russia the potential for more strategic ties.
Why Russia Isn’t Doomed • Stimson Center
