What Are Global South Aspirations for Putin's Re-Election?

Countries of the Global South have shown little enthusiasm to comply with Western sanctions against Russia following the special military operation in Ukraine and have strengthened their ties with Russia.

There are many reasons for this, including multiple economic and geopolitical interests, widespread suspicion of sanctions, and historic anti-Western sentiments. India, Brazil, China, Indonesia, South Africa, Turkiye and the United Arab Emirates are some of the major partners in the Global South that have remained neutral or opposed to sanctions.

A June 2023 joint statement by BRICS foreign ministers said the use of sanctions against Russia was 'inconsistent' with the UN Charter.

The Global South's relationship with Russia is not just defined by contemporary geopolitics. This is also reflected in history, economic relations and diplomacy. For example, a recent survey in India found that respondents viewed Russia as the country's "most reliable partner" since independence in 1947.

Meanwhile, Sputnik India has discussed Putin's personal contribution in developing relations between Russia and the Global South with Dr. Anuradha Chenoy, a retired professor at the Center for Russian and Central Asian Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University.

Russia's Ties With Global South Nations Under Putin

Chenoy said that in 2000, Putin coming to power was a significant moment in the revival of India-Russia relations and since then he has taken special interest in taking these relations to new heights.

"Putin understands India and the Indian political leadership like no other leader in the world. He gives unconditional support to India and never preaches morality. He does not interfere in India's internal affairs. They support technology transfer and Indian national interests which serves as the basis for close India-Russia cooperation,” Chenoy told Sputnik India.

In fact, the core of the issue lies largely in the West's lack of understanding of the Global South, as the South has different strategic priorities and options from the West. The countries of the Global South have manifold important priorities.

"The Global South needs urgent economic development and wants the right to choose its own path of development without being imposed by any foreign entity. For this development, they need unconditional support. The Global South has understood that multipolarity will prevent such development. So they expect Russian and President Putin's support in this effort," Chenoy underlined.

Putin's Strategy of Bolstering Ties With Global South vs Western Regime Change Strategy

Answering the question how Putin's strategy in establishing relations with the countries of the Global South differs from that of Western leaders, the expert underlined that "it is unconditional."

“Russia does not interfere through regime change, military intervention, sanctions, assassinations, etc. Russia is not looking for proxies like the US to carry out its agenda. Russia does not have the power to interfere in the politics of other countries. There is no CIA either,” Chenoy remarked.

Russia

Russia Knew West Would Try to Disrupt Online Voting in Election Abroad

16 March, 11:32