Transformation of Political Dialogue between Russia and Thailand in the Context of a Changing World Order

This article examines the key stages in the development of political relations between Russia and Thailand, with a particular focus on the dynamics of bilateral cooperation in the 21st century. The analysis is situated within the broader framework of global international processes, which enables the identification of a significant correlation between the trajectory of Russia—Thailand relations and shifts in the international/regional order. During the Cold War, Thailand was aligned with the anti-Soviet bloc, which posed a major obstacle to the establishment of normal bilateral ties. The dissolution of the Soviet Union and the subsequent reduction in global tensions during the 1990s facilitated the establishment of more constructive relations. In the 21st century, Russian—Thai political cooperation has demonstrated sustained progress, expanding into new domains and increasingly shaped by geopolitical considerations. External pressure and partial international isolation following the events of 2014 — namely, Russia’s reunification with Crimea and the Thai military coup — acted as catalysts for deeper political dialogue and closer collaboration, particularly in the realm of security. The article argues that the current trajectory of bilateral political engagement is characterized by a degree of strategic resilience. Despite Russia’s ongoing Special Military Operation and Thailand’s transition from military to civilian governance, the continuity of relations suggests the emergence of an elite-level consensus in Thailand regarding the long-term value of engagement with Russia.

Russia, Thailand, political relations, bilateral cooperation, international pressure, security collaboration, geopolitical shifts