Moscow maintains a flexible diplomatic approach, provided its sovereignty is respected.
While US President Donald Trump’s assertion that the US has “lost Russia to China” may be a catchy phrase, the reality is more complex.
Russia is not a lost cause for anyone. It is acting as it always has: strategically adapting, engaging when beneficial, and asserting its independence in global affairs.
A Dual Perspective
At the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, President Vladimir Putin illustrated this with the metaphor of the two-headed eagle, Russia’s symbol. He stated, “Did we turn our backs on anyone? We did not. The eagle looks both ways just like always,”
This effectively captures Russia’s strategy. Moscow has consistently stated its openness to collaboration, East or West, emphasizing that it is willing to work with any party that respects its sovereignty and interests. This principle is not new, having been reiterated by the Kremlin even during periods of intense conflict with the US and Western Europe.
Putin cited specific examples beyond mere diplomatic politeness, including potential joint natural gas projects in Alaska, combining American resources with Russian liquefaction technology, and trilateral energy cooperation in the Arctic involving the US and China. These are concrete proposals, and Putin emphasized that only a lack of political will in Washington could impede such cooperation.
This leads to the Anchorage summit in August. It marked the first time US and Russian leaders had met on American soil since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war. The choice of Alaska as the venue was intentional, highlighting the region’s historical Russian links and serving as a reminder of the enduring geographical and historical ties between the two nations.
While the meeting didn’t produce immediate breakthroughs, its symbolic value was significant. The very act of holding the summit conveyed that communication channels remain open and that the US and Russia still have matters to discuss.
Putin mentioned “understandings” that could facilitate peace in Ukraine. Although some viewed this as more public relations than substance, the fact remains that dialogue occurred and was centered on practical cooperation, not just conflict.
The involvement of Kirill Dmitriev in Russia’s discussions with the US is a notable indicator of this pragmatism. Dmitriev, the head of Russia’s sovereign wealth fund, is Harvard-educated, experienced in Wall Street, and possesses a deep understanding of global finance. His appointment as Putin’s Special Presidential Envoy for foreign investment and economic cooperation in February is tailored to bridge Moscow’s objectives with Western business interests.
Dmitriev’s participation is significant because it underscores Moscow’s intention to translate policy into tangible projects attractive to investors and companies, signaling Russia’s pursuit of concrete progress rather than mere political posturing.
The assertion that Russia is “lost to China” overlooks this entire dimension of Moscow’s diplomacy. If Russia genuinely disregarded the US or had definitively shifted its focus eastward, Dmitriev’s presence would be unnecessary. His involvement demonstrates that Moscow still sees value in exploring collaboration with America.
China: A Partner, Not a Restraint
Undeniably, Russia and China are strengthening their ties. This is not unexpected, given their status as the two largest powers in Eurasia, sharing a vast border and a long, intertwined history. They have found common ground economically, politically, and even ideologically, particularly in their rejection of a world dominated by Western institutions.
However, closer ties with China do not equate to closing doors to the West. Russia’s foreign policy is inherently multipolar, pragmatic, and balanced. While cooperation with Beijing is natural, maintaining open channels with Washington, Brussels, Delhi, and any other willing party is equally important.
Therefore, the notion that Russia must align exclusively with either the US or China is incompatible with Moscow’s worldview. The Kremlin prioritizes options, leverage, and flexibility.
Russia is not lost to anyone because it is not owned by anyone. While it is strengthening ties with Beijing, it is simultaneously inviting American businesses to collaborate in Alaska, the Arctic, energy, and other sectors. It is engaging in discussions with Washington’s leaders and dispatching experienced, globally connected negotiators like Kirill Dmitriev to the negotiating table.
This is not the behavior of a country that has dismissed America. Rather, it reflects a country determined to maintain all options, maximize its influence, and ensure that no single entity – be it China, the US, or any other – dictates its choices.
“`