Report: The Kremlin’s Political Prisoners: Advancing a Political Agenda by Crushing Dissent
By Free Russia Foundation
April 29, 2019
Why We Must Speak Out about Oleg Sentsov Now
By Natalia Arno
September 11, 2018
Priority Number One: Save Oleg Sentsov
By Natalia Arno
August 28, 2018
Oleg Sentsov and other political prisoners we must fight for
By Alexey Kozlov
June 07, 2018
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Kremlin Influence: Analysis, Mechanisms, and Consequences
Research on Kremlin Influence on Domestic and International Politics
The “Kremlin Influence” section of the Free Russia Foundation think tank is dedicated to studying the mechanisms and consequences of the Kremlin’s malign influence both within Russia and on the international stage. We offer a comprehensive analysis of intervention strategies, propaganda, and economic methods aimed at consolidating power and weakening democratic processes abroad. Our research covers:
- Analysis of the Kremlin’s political and economic influence on neighboring countries and international organizations;
- Assessment of hybrid influence tools, including propaganda, cyberattacks, and corruption;
- Study of the consequences of Kremlin influence on the security and stability of other states;
- Forecasting future scenarios for the development of Kremlin foreign policy.
Our goal is to provide readers with an objective understanding of how the Kremlin uses its influence to achieve political goals and how this affects international security.
Political and Economic Influence of the Kremlin
The Kremlin actively uses its political and economic influence to achieve strategic goals. We analyze:
- Interference in the political processes of neighboring countries, including support for pro-Russian parties, election interference, and the use of energy resources as leverage;
- Economic influence through the creation of dependencies in the energy sector, lending, and investments in strategic industries of other countries;
- Support for authoritarian regimes and weakening democratic movements to maintain influence and counter democratic changes.
These actions contribute to the spread of authoritarian practices and limit opportunities for democratic development in several countries.
Hybrid Influence Tools
The Kremlin employs a wide range of hybrid tools to achieve its goals. We consider:
- Propaganda and disinformation aimed at undermining trust in democratic institutions and creating chaos in society. In this context, state media such as RT and Sputnik play an important role;
- Cyberattacks and information operations aimed at destabilizing political systems and interfering in elections in Europe and the United States;
- Corruption as a tool of influence, involving the creation of corrupt networks in government and business circles of other countries to promote Kremlin interests.
These methods allow the Kremlin to influence political processes, weaken international institutions, and advance its interests abroad.
Consequences of Kremlin Influence on International Security
Kremlin actions have a significant impact on international security and stability. We study:
- Impact on security in Europe, including support for separatist movements and the freezing of conflicts, such as in Ukraine and Georgia;
- Heightening international tensions through demonstrations of military power, interference in conflicts, and violations of international agreements;
- Undermining trust in international organizations such as the UN and OSCE through blocking decisions and promoting its own interests.
Our research helps to understand how Kremlin actions threaten global stability and what measures can be taken to counter these threats.
Prospects and the Future of Kremlin Influence
Our experts analyze possible scenarios for the development of Kremlin influence and its consequences for the international community. We consider:
- The potential for further expansion of Kremlin influence amid economic sanctions and international isolation;
- Opportunities for democratic countries and international organizations to counter Kremlin actions;
- Prospects for the democratic movement in Russia and reducing the influence of authoritarian practices abroad.
We strive to provide an objective vision of future changes and possible ways to counter the Kremlin’s malign influence.
Methodology and Research Approach
Our research is based on objective data and facts. We use various analytical methods, including:
- Content analysis of media and official documents to identify key narratives and influence strategies;
- Interviews with experts in international relations and security to obtain professional assessments of current trends;
- Analysis of data on cyberattacks, financial flows, and election interference to assess the scale and consequences of Kremlin influence.
We aim to provide relevant and quality information that helps our readers gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms and consequences of Kremlin interference.
Articles, Reports, and Analytical Materials
Our publications help to understand the goals and methods of Kremlin influence, as well as its consequences for international stability. We provide quality information for those seeking a deeper understanding of current threats and possible ways to overcome them.
Mission of Free Russia Foundation
Free Russia Foundation continues its mission of supporting democratic processes and countering authoritarian influence by providing readers with objective analysis and verified data. On the pages of our think tank, you will find:
- An expert perspective on Kremlin influence and its consequences for the international community;
- An assessment of prospects and ways to counter authoritarian interference and support democratic changes.
We believe that through a deep understanding of Kremlin influence mechanisms and their consequences, we can contribute to strengthening democratic institutions and developing a sustainable world. Our publications aim to inspire readers to actively support democratic values and counter authoritarian pressure.