In the midst of geopolitical upheaval, Russia's stance on climate change warrants a closer look. In Russia‘s stance on climate change: Powerless towards nature, paranoid towards policy, pragmatic towards profit, Senior Researcher and Project Manager for Climate and Security Sabrina Kaschowitz traces the development of strategies related to the Arctic and green energy transition by tracing Russia’s official documents and international obligations, revealing a layered stance characterized by a lack of effective action towards environmental challenges, a defensive attitude toward international policy, and a strategic focus on profit. As Russia’s international isolation and global climate pressure continue to grow, understanding these dynamics becomes crucial for future cooperation in addressing climate challenges. In navigating its complex relationship with Russia on climate change, the EU should focus on key do's and avoid potential pitfalls.

Do: Strengthen Carbon Regulation

The EU should uphold strict criteria for carbon regulation, ensuring that Russia’s carbon credits are based on verifiable emission reductions. This approach pressures Russia to align its practices with international standards while maintaining the integrity of the EU's carbon market.

Do: Keep Research Channels Open

Maintaining academic and scientific collaboration on climate issues, particularly in the Arctic, is essential for climate diplomacy. Despite Russia's restrictive policies, open research channels can foster communication and help address shared climate challenges.

Do: Leverage Arctic Coordination

The EU should engage Russia in climate diplomacy by using Arctic cooperation as a platform for dialogue. By offering concessions related to environmental protection in exchange for concrete climate commitments, the EU can promote sustainable practices in this crucial region.

Do: Promote Green Hydrogen Development

Russia has significant potential to produce green hydrogen, which could help meet future energy demands. The EU should encourage discussions about renewable energy markets, positioning them as opportunities for economic diversification and alignment with sustainability goals.

Don't: Pressure Non-European Countries

The EU should avoid forcing countries outside Europe to choose between aligning with Russia or the West. Instead, offering integrated support packages that address economic investment and anti-corruption efforts can counter Russia's narrative as an anti-colonial ally.

Don't: Contribute to Geopoliticisation

If the EU aligns with U.S. geopolitical strategies that frame climate policy as competitive, it risks alienating Russia further. Instead, adopting collaborative approaches to green energy can position Russia as a partner in addressing global climate challenges rather than an adversary.

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