Russia in the International Space Exploration System: Global Cooperation and Competition in the 21st Century

Current geopolitical challenges impact the principles, objectives, and priorities of Russia’s policy in international space exploration. Geopolitical instability necessitates a reconsideration of national goals and strategies in space policy. The authors applied a qualitative case study method to analyze specific instances of Russia’s international space cooperation. A combination of systemic, functional, comparative, and predictive methods provided a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between internal and external factors driving Russia’s space policy. A thorough analysis of historical prerequisites made it possible to reconstruct the modern model of international space cooperation in Russia and compare it with current practices in the Global West, Global South, and Asia. While Russian space programs face certain challenges and constraints, space exploration remains an instrument of soft power and strategic positioning in the international arena. Russia must transform its national space policy, focusing on technological sovereignty, multilateral partnerships with the Global South, and a balanced strategy for cooperation with the People’s Republic of China and the United States. The research results can be applied to reshape Russia’s current foreign policy in the sphere of space science and technology.