Russia Rejects The G7 And Bets On A Multipolar World

The global geopolitical balance is undergoing significant change. Russia, which was once a member of the G8 before its exclusion in 2014, today adopts a radically different posture. Faced with what it sees as a decline in the influence of Western powers, Moscow now prioritizes the BRICS and the G20, to the detriment of a G7 deemed obsolete. This strategic reconfiguration goes beyond a mere diplomatic adjustment; it illustrates a broader shift in power dynamics, where emerging economies are gaining ground against institutions dominated by the West. Through the statements of its ambassador to Canada, Russia confirms its definitive disengagement from the G7 and outlines the contours of a new international order.

An unequivocal rejection of the G7 and a new strategic direction

“Russia has no interest in returning to the G7. This format is outdated and no longer reflects the realities of the current world order,” said Oleg Stepanov, Russia’s ambassador to Canada. According to him, this group, which historically brought together the major Western economic powers, no longer has the capacity to effectively influence global affairs. Russia’s expulsion in 2014, following the annexation of Crimea, marked the end of Moscow’s integration into this exclusive club. Since then, Russia has progressively distanced itself from structures led by the West and has not sought to negotiate a return to the G7.

According to Stepanov, global governance mechanisms must adapt to a new multipolar reality. He highlights the BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the G20 as more representative alternatives to contemporary economic and political balances. “We have chosen genuine platforms for global governance,” he added. Furthermore, he emphasizes that Russia aims to rely on alliances where emerging economies play a central role, contrary to what he perceives as Western dominance within the G7.

The BRICS and the G20, new priorities for Russia

If Russia is betting on the BRICS and the G20, it is primarily to strengthen its presence in organizations where the West does not dictate the rules. The BRICS have gained momentum in recent years and aim to create a counterbalance to Western institutions. With the integration of new members and the development of alternatives to the dollar-based monetary system, this coalition is becoming an essential player on the international stage.

The G20, for its part, constitutes a more balanced dialogue space where established economic powers mix with developing countries. For Moscow, this group is a strategic lever that allows it to influence global economic discussions without being constrained by Western geopolitical blockages. This strategic realignment could also promote the rise of alternative currencies and crypto transactions, thus circumventing economic sanctions and the control of the traditional financial system.

Such a reorientation of Russia towards blocs like the BRICS and the G20 illustrates a gradual shift towards a multipolar world. By distancing itself from the G7, Moscow seeks to reduce its exposure to Western influence, but also to redefine international cooperation standards. This choice could accelerate economic changes in favor of governance that is less dollar-centric and open the door to a broader adoption of decentralized financial solutions. The fragmentation of the global economic order is underway, and Russia seems determined to be one of its main architects.