Fyodor Lukyanov: Russia Navigates Between Two World Orders
Summary
Glenn Diesen interviews Fyodor Lukianov on Russia’s unwavering diplomatic conditions for ending the Ukraine war, which remain unchanged despite military escalation. Lukianov argues that European institutions lack the cohesion to engage constructively, while U.S. midterm elections have weakened Trump’s leverage, potentially prolonging the conflict. The discussion concludes by analyzing the transition to a fragmented, multipolar world where economic interdependence persists despite severe geopolitical fragmentation and the decline of liberal universalism.
Topics discussed
Introduction and the crossroads of diplomacy vs. military action
Russia's consistent demands and the leverage of military pressure
Impact of US midterms on Trump's diplomatic leverage
Trump's weakened position and the 'lame duck' perception
Why restoring diplomacy with Europe remains difficult
The crisis of legitimacy and the spiral of mutual fear
Revisiting Helsinki Accords and the contradiction of security principles
Navigating a fragmented yet interconnected global order
Skepticism on US-Russia breakthroughs and US political transformation
Assessment of Russia's strategy and the decisive winter ahead
Listen ad-free on Castria