Practice and Structural Contradictions of Russian Energy Diplomacy: A Role Theory

The article uses the role theory of international relations as an analytical tool for a systematic study of strategic logic and the evolution of energy diplomacy in the Russian Federation in the post-bipolar period. The author substantiates the thesis that energy diplomacy serves as a key mechanism for Russia to implement its main national role concepts, such as “energy superpower”, “Eurasian leader” and “independent global center”, and is aimed at transforming resource potential into geopolitical influence and economic power. Empirical analysis shows that through the creation of critical infrastructure and the formation of a regional energy order, Russia has managed to strengthen its position in the “near abroad” countries to a certain extent and enhance its status in the global energy architecture. However, the model of diplomacy under study is faced with growing structural contradictions: the fundamental conflict between the internal roles of a “reliable supplier” and a “user of a politi-cal instrument” leads to the erosion of strategic reputation.; At the same time, the global energy transition, sys-temic Western sanctions and severe restrictions on the raw materials model of the economy create a constant increasing external pressure. The continued effectiveness of Russia’s energy diplomacy will depend on its abil-ity to find a new balance between maintaining traditional power roles and adapting to the transformation of the international system.