新雅尔塔 ， 普京的痴迷

CIDOB Opinion 703 highlights the notion of Russia being under threat and its perceived need for protection by a buffer zone of sovereign states. This is a concept deeply rooted in Russian foreign policy, where Russia sees itself as the sole legitimate actor asserting its supremacy in the former Soviet space. The article underscores how this narrative is integrated into the Russian establishment's discourse, assuming the right to protect its borders with a protective layer of states that cannot decide to free themselves from the post-colonial geopolitical conditions imposed by the Kremlin.

The former Soviet republics, now independent states, are seen as crucial for the survival of the Russian state, forming what the Kremlin perceives as its "security belt" or "sphere of vital interest". However, this perspective is met with resistance from the West, which is accused of not only failing to recognize Russia's legitimate interests but also actively interfering in the internal affairs of these countries, attempting to undermine Russia's position in Europe.

Moscow's demand for legal guarantees against NATO's expansion towards the east echoes historical agreements made during the Yalta Conference in 1945 among the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This reflects a historical reference that underpins the current policy of the Russian Federation, aiming to secure a lasting peace in Europe, similar to what was achieved during Stalin's era.

The focus on Ukraine exemplifies this narrative, with Moscow's insistence on ensuring a government friendly towards Russia in Ukraine, paralleling Stalin's concerns about Poland. This obsession with Ukraine is rooted in a theory that emphasizes the shared identity between Russians and Ukrainians, using this as a basis for justifying its actions in the region.

The article also discusses the Kremlin's portrayal of reality, where brutal repression in Belarus is termed "normalization," and where Russia's actions, such as the persecution and imprisonment of Tartars in Crimea, are justified due to the perceived threat of genocide against Russian speakers in Donbas. These actions highlight the manipulation of words and facts to suit the Kremlin's narrative.

Furthermore, the article suggests that the aggressive policies of the Kremlin have inadvertently led to increased support for the EU and NATO in the region. While these organizations are not necessarily idealized, they are perceived as more respectful of national sovereignty and the wishes of the people compared to Russia's policies.

The final part of the opinion piece emphasizes the importance of respecting human rights within a country, as exemplified by Andrei Sakharov, a founder of Memorial, the organization disbanded by the Kremlin. It concludes that a nation that does not respect the rights of its own people will not respect the rights of its neighbors, underscoring the potential consequences of human rights violations for regional stability.