Reassembling Post-Soviet Eurasia: Russia’s Leadership Potential in Conditions of External Pressure

Abstract

The article examines the change in the world order and its geopolitical, geoeconomic, cultural and humanitarian consequences for Eurasian integration. The stages of transformation of the post-Soviet space after the collapse of the USSR are identified. The main risks for the countries of the region are characterized. It is concluded that medium-term challenges for integration processes include three areas: energy transition, information and communication revolution, including the expansion of digital platforms and the development of large language models, as well as the policy of the United States and other Western countries to contain and slow down the technological progress of Russia, China and other non-Western countries. These challenges pose a threat of consolidating post-Soviet Eurasia on the periphery of world development, but at the same time form the prerequisites for accelerating integration. Recommendations  are given on the need to strengthen the scientific and technological direction of integration interaction with the leading role of Russia up to its approval as the main one within the EAEU. This process should be built on the basis of mutual benefit and strengthening trust, strengthening humanitarian cooperation between Russia and its partners in Eurasian integration.