RUSSIA AND THE GLOBAL SOUTH: LATIN AMERICAN DIMENSION OF RELATIONS

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to analyze the modern foreign policy of the Russian Federation in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) and the main directions of their interaction at the present stage. The research methodology is based on the system-historical approach and general scientific methods of theoretical analysis and synthesis. The main subject of the study is the concept of the “Global South,” which is currently used to define developing regions and states, including the LAC countries. The motives behind Russia’s turn towards the LAC are analyzed, which gained significant momentum in the mid-1990s, largely influenced by the appointment of E.M. Primakov as the head of the Russian Foreign Ministry. In the beginning of the 21st century, the Russian Federation has begun to restore and expand its influence in the region due to a number of factors, including deteriorating relations with the United States. In addition, the geopolitical landscape of the early 21st century, characterized by multipolarity, the rising influence of new power centers, as well as the Western and US sanctions policy imposed on Russia, has led to a reassessment of geopolitical priorities and increased Russian engagement with the LAC countries. The conclusion characterizes the primary areas of Russia’s cooperation with the region and identifies key factors constraining further development of cooperation between Russia and the LAC countries.