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.