Russia and Southeast Asia

This chapter reviews the state of Russia–Southeast Asia relations. Since the 1990s, Russia has largely avoided inter-power contestation and has sought to rebuild its multifaceted relationships with Southeast Asian states and with the premier regional organization, ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). Russia’s political-economic ties to the region are relatively small compared to other big and middle powers. While Russia’s foreign policy does not prioritize the region, it has nevertheless been a consistent partner within the geopolitical canvas of the area and a key ally for some Southeast Asian states. The global COVID-19 pandemic has curtailed Russia’s international involvement in general and in Southeast Asia in particular. This article examines the theoretical perspectives and linkages between Russia and Southeast Asia and offers an assessment of its current and future standings.