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Foundations of Geopolitics

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The book *Foundations of Geopolitics: The Geopolitical Future of Russia* is a significant work of political theory. Published in 1997, it was written by Aleksandr Dugin, a Russian political analyst. Dugin promotes an ideology known as neo-Eurasianism. This theory suggests that Russia is a unique civilization. It argues that Russia should not be viewed merely as a part of Europe. The book has had a deep influence on Russian military and foreign policy elites. It has even been used as a textbook at the Academy of the General Staff.

Dugin's theory relies on a specific way of dividing the world. He distinguishes between "Atlantic" and "Eurasian" societies. Atlantic societies, like the United States, are often coastal and cosmopolitan. They are characterized by their connection to the sea and diverse cultures. In contrast, Eurasian societies are landlocked and focused on internal cohesion. Dugin argues that Atlantic societies currently hold too much global influence. He believes Russia must rebuild its power to challenge this dominance. He calls for a new era of Russian influence through alliances and annexations.

The book outlines several methods for achieving this geopolitical shift. One method is the creation of a "Greater Eurasian Partnership." This involves building close ties with China, India, and the Islamic world. Dugin also suggests using Russia's vast natural resources as a tool. He argues that gas and oil can be used to pressure other nations. Furthermore, the text advocates for sophisticated intelligence operations. These operations include subversion and disinformation to destabilize rivals. This strategy aims to weaken the existing international order.

Dugin provides very specific plans for different regions of the world. In Europe, he suggests a "Moscow–Berlin axis" to influence the continent. He proposes that Germany should hold political dominance over parts of Central and Eastern Europe. He also suggests that Finland should be absorbed into Russia. Regarding the Caucasus, he views the region as Russian territory. This includes parts of Central Asia like Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. In the Middle East, he promotes a "Moscow–Tehran axis" with Iran. This alliance is based on shared traditional characteristics.

The book contains very strong views regarding neighboring states. Dugin argues that Ukraine has no geopolitical meaning as an independent state. He suggests that most of Ukraine should be annexed by Russia. He also believes Belarus and Moldova should become part of Russia. In Asia, Dugin expresses a desire to see the dismantling of China. He suggests Russia should take certain territories from China to create a security belt. However, he has also noted an admiration for China's growing independence. He views China as a potential counterweight to Western influence.

Recent history shows that these ideas are reflected in Russian policy. In 2021, a Levada Center poll found that 64% of Russians identify as non-European. Only 29% of citizens viewed Russia as part of Europe. In 2023, Russia adopted a new foreign policy document approved by Vladimir Putin. This document describes Russia as a "unique country-civilization." It seeks to build the "Greater Eurasian Partnership" mentioned in Dugin's work. It also identifies the United States as a primary opponent in global politics. This shows a clear link between Dugin's theories and official state goals.

Experts have offered many different views on the book's impact. Some scholars, like John B. Dunlop, see the rise of these ideas as a sign of neo-fascist sentiment. Historian Timothy D. Snyder notes that the work is influenced by conservative international order theorists. The magazine *Foreign Policy* described the book as both impressive and terrifying. Some observers link the book's strategies to the recent invasion of Ukraine. Others point to the book's use of occult symbols, such as the Chaos Star. Regardless of the interpretation, the book remains a central text in understanding modern Russian geopolitics. It demonstrates how political theory can shape the actions of a major power.

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