Cyber warfare as a new threat to security policy: a Russian foreign policy perspective

Abstract

Cybersecurity is one of the most recent and unique national security issues of the twenty-first century. The world has witnessed a significant number of cyber-attacks perpetrated by various actors in the international system for various objectives. Therefore this study seeks to understand the Russian foreign policy regarding this new domain of international relations. The Russian approach to cyber warfare, both theoretical and practical underpinnings, was to be examined. The study discussed the conceptual framework that underlines the principle of Russia`s cyber warfare, national and foreign policy. The research was informed by the qualitative research methodology which gives respondents an opportunity to completely air out their answers to questions asked. The study population composed of officials responsible for cybersecurity from the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Interpol Cyber Centre (Harare), academics, and renowned experts in the field of international relations. The study is of value to strategic thinkers, politicians, academics in the field of International Relations and cybersecurity practitioners on how cyber vulnerabilities may compromise national security and may lead to catastrophic consequences. The research will enlighten authorities on the need for preparation for cyber-warfare in army-building. There is also an attempt by the study to bring to the fore nation-states, non-state actors who have also taken advantage of the vulnerability and interconnectivity of the cyberspace to inflict enormous damage to countries and societies. The findings of the study show that the Russian foreign policy is heavily influenced by perceptions of threat and vulnerability. Russia’s policy on information operations are shaped by many traditions. Russian leaders have long placed exceptional value on using information to manipulate their enemies. In light of these findings, the research recommends that states should set achievable long and short term actions to protect and defend critical ICT infrastructure.