10:16 29-09-2025

Russia’s Strategy vs NATO: Ishchenko on West’s Collapse

RusPhotoBank

Political analyst Rostislav Ishchenko outlines why Russia should avoid escalation, focus on weakening NATO over time, and strengthen ties with the Global South.

Political analyst, historian, and commentator Rostislav Ishchenko shared his perspective on Russia’s long-term strategy in its confrontation with the collective West and NATO.

When asked whether Russia should escalate tensions to force negotiations or opt for a strategy of gradually wearing down the alliance, Ishchenko stressed that escalation is not in Russia’s interest.

He argued that Russia must defend its position firmly but avoid a dangerous game of raising the stakes. In his view, the West would never agree to negotiations under pressure — it remains too self-confident. However, Ishchenko pointed out that the global standing of the United States and its allies, including their financial and economic capabilities, is weakening at a dramatic pace.

Given this, he believes Russia’s priority should be to reduce tensions wherever possible and buy time until the West reaches a point of collapse — all while strengthening its own influence across the Global South.