Russia in Eurasian Geopolitics: between Alexandr Dugin and Sergey Karaganov

This paper examines Russia’s geopolitical identity and strategic orientations in Eurasian geopolitics, focusing on the contrasting perspectives of Aleksandr Dugin and Sergey Karaganov. It begins by contextualising Russia’s dual European and Asian identity, highlighting its demographic, cultural, and historical ties to Europe alongside its vast Asian territory and Eurasian heritage.

The analysis then explores Dugin’s radical neo-Eurasianism, advocating for Russia as a Eurasian empire destined to lead a multipolar world opposing Western liberalism, emphasising a confrontational approach toward Europe and NATO. In contrast, Karaganov adopts a pragmatic realist stance, promoting Russia’s civilizational sovereignty and a strategic pivot eastward toward Asia, advocating de – Westernisation and multipolarity while prioritising nuclear deterrence.

The paper situates these intellectual currents within contemporary geopolitical developments, including Western security concerns about Russian aggression in Europe, and underscores their influence on Kremlin policymaking. Ultimately, the study highlights the divergent pathways Russia may pursue between continued European engagement and Asian reorientation.