The Russian geopolitical context is shaped by a series of historical, strategic, economic, and ideological debates that influence its foreign policy and relations with other countries. Russia's geographic position spanning Europe and Asia, its imperial and Soviet legacy, security concerns, and aspirations to remain a major global power have contributed to diverse schools of geopolitical thought. These debates determine how Russia responds to regional conflicts, global institutions, and changing international power structures. One of the central debates concerns Russia's identity as either a European or a Eurasian power. Western-oriented thinkers argue that Russia should strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties with Europe, promote modernization, and cooperate with Western institutions. In contrast, Eurasianists believe that Russia possesses a unique civilization that bridges Europe and Asia and should pursue an independent path by strengthening relations with Asian countries and former Soviet republics. This debate has encouraged Russia to promote regional integration through organizations such as the Eurasian Economic Union while simultaneously maintaining a cautious relationship with Western powers. Another major debate revolves around national security and NATO expansion. Russian policymakers have consistently viewed the eastward enlargement of NATO as a direct threat to their national security. This perception has influenced Russia's military modernization, increased defence expenditure, and stronger military presence in neighboring regions. The security debate has also contributed to confrontational policies in areas considered strategically important, especially in Eastern Europe and the Black Sea region. The concept of