Albert Bakhtizin, the director at the Central Institute of Economics and Mathematics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, argues that Russia should not lean on friendly nations to solve geopolitical challenges or to confront Western powers. The message is clear: today there is less need to depend on allies, and the benefits of such friendships are often overshadowed by conditional terms and competing agendas. In Bakhtizin’s view, many countries prioritize their own interests over others, making many relationships precarious. He suggests that Russia should pursue strength independently, leveraging its own capabilities and resources to secure a more stable and influential position on the global stage. This stance reflects a broader principle observed in social dynamics: groups tend to align with the strongest presence, and Russia’s path to strengthened influence lies in building internal resilience rather than relying on external guarantees. Citations: Bakhtizin interview.
