The Bear in the Dragon's Shadow: The Evolution of Russia-China Relations

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the evolution of relations between Moscow and Beijing, revealing Russia's transformation from a superpower to China's junior partner. Drawing on Michał Lubina's conceptual framework, the author contrasts the Russian strategic mentality, based on the logic of a zero-sum chess game, with the Chinese philosophy of the game of Go, focused on long-term outflanking. The text details the mechanisms of the axis of convenience, which replaces traditional alliances, and the resource trap into which the Russian economy is falling after its pivot to Asia. The analysis spans key historical moments, from Yeltsin's presidency to the era of Putin and Xi Jinping, taking into account the impact of the annexation of Crimea on the deepening power asymmetry. This is essential reading for those seeking to understand the dynamics of contemporary multipolarity and the true foundations of cooperation between the two Eurasian giants in the face of global geopolitical changes.