Russia is struggling to maintain its global subversive capabilities, as illustrated by its recent failures in Ukraine and Moldova.
Over the past few years, Russia has attempted to revive the destabilization and subversion techniques it was once accustomed to during the Soviet era. However, these efforts have often ended in failure, particularly evident in its recent campaigns in Ukraine and Moldova. This article examines Russia’s declining subversion skills, the underlying reasons for these declines, and the implications for global security.
Russia’s declining subversion capabilities
Historically, Russia, and before it the Soviet Union, has excelled in the art of subversion to overthrow or weaken foreign governments without resorting to open military confrontation. However, recent attempts at destabilization, such as in Ukraine and Moldova, have failed. In 2022, Russian agents tried unsuccessfully to incite mass protests in Ukraine to justify military intervention. In Moldova, similar efforts to provoke anti-Ukrainian protests and encourage Russian military intervention also failed.
Causes of the decline
Several factors are contributing to the decline of Russia’s subversive capabilities. Firstly, the collapse of the Soviet Union led to a significant loss of skills and resources dedicated to these operations. In addition, internal corruption and economic challenges have weakened key institutions such as the FSB and GRU. Russia also overestimated the support of pro-Russian factions in foreign governments, leading to miscalculations and strategic failures.
Consequences for Russia and global security
The repeated failures of attempts to subvert Russia have several implications. On the one hand, they reduce Russia’s geopolitical influence and expose its strategic limits to the international community. On the other hand, these failures may prompt Russia to adopt more aggressive or desperate strategies, increasing the risk of direct confrontation. The perception of Russia’s weakening could also encourage bolder responses from its adversaries, potentially leading to an escalation of regional conflicts.
The decline in Russia’s subversive capabilities signals a notable shift in the international security landscape. As Russia continues to seek to reassert its influence on the world stage, the limits of its subversive capabilities pose significant challenges. The countries targeted by these destabilization attempts are increasingly aware of and prepared to counter these threats, which could lead to a new dynamic in international relations and geopolitics in the future.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.