International Legitimization of Russian Foreign Policy Actions in the Context of the Ukrainian and Syrian Conflicts: the ‘Responsibility to Protect’ Conception

Abstract

Introduction. The complexity of foreign policy actions’ international legitimization is determined by the use of unilateral approach in the new environment of world political processes. Due to Russian foreign policy’s intensification, the issue of international legitimization of its foreign policy actions has expanded and deepened in the post-Soviet space and beyond: it is obvious in practice, but not conceptualized at the theoretical level. Methods. It seems to be of utmost importance to consider the problem in the context of the recent most pressing events – the Ukrainian and Syrian conflicts, using the case-study method as well as through the perceptualhermeneutic analysis of foreign policy actions. Analysis. The need to do research in legitimization as a process of justification and achievement of a foreign policy position’s recognition is obvious. It is necessary to highlight the reasons for the ineffectiveness of Russian foreign policy actions’ justification instruments and legitimization policy. Results. The assessment and conceptualization of existing legal and political concepts is particularly important to build an international legitimization foreign policy strategy. The implementation of foreign policy action should be accompanied by the transfer of basic foreign policy values and interests, combining legal, political, and moral grounds. The improvement of the international legitimization mechanism, its tools’ rapid revitalization and operating flexibility can give Russia an indisputable advantage over other actors and allow it to ensure the necessary result for the foreign policy strategy and strengthen its positioning in the international environment.