1. The Realist debate in the context of the War in Ukraine: balancing dynamics, international change and strategic calculus
- Author:
- Layla Ibrahim Abdallah Dawood and Eugenio Pacelli Lazzarotti Diniz Costa
- Publication Date:
- 05-2024
- Content Type:
- Journal Article
- Journal:
- Revista Brasileira de Política Internacional (RBPI)
- Institution:
- Instituto Brasileiro de Relações Internacionais (IBRI)
- Abstract:
- The article discusses Mearsheimer’s interpretation of Russia’s use of force against Ukraine based on concepts and categories of Offensive Realism. It is argued that external balancing lost its place during unipolarity. However, Russian internal balancing is one of the factors that enabled the current conflict, and Russia’s rapprochement with China diminishes the prospects for conflict in Asia, allowing Russian military efforts to be concentrated in the European theater. Additionally, the decision to use force will be analyzed in its strategic dimension. It is concluded that Russia’s activities against Ukraine are entirely consistent with Offensive Realism, despite of Mearsheimer’s allegations contrarywise.
- Topic:
- International Relations, Realism, Russia-Ukraine War, and Balance of Power
- Political Geography:
- Russia, Europe, and Ukraine