Russia's Invasion of Ukraine: Assessments, Implications, Prospects

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has had a profound impact on the international system and global economic relations. The conflict has instigated what can be termed a “multi-crisis,” exacerbating pre-existing economic challenges. Notably, this crisis is marked by unprecedented restrictions on access to global energy markets for a major resource supplier like Russia, which provides not only oil and gas but other vital resources as well. Additionally, Ukraine, another key exporter and transit country for raw materials, has suffered as a direct casualty of the conflict. Consequently, there has been a substantial reconfiguration of global supply chains for both oil and other essential commodities. Furthermore, the conflict has led to the “weaponization” of the global economy and hydrocarbon trade. Both Russia and its adversaries in the sanctions conflict have begun employing economic measures against one another, undermining the principles of a liberal market at least in the medium term. This situation has prompted the international community to reassess the political risks associated with dependency on particular resource types.

The Center for International and Regional Studies (CIRS), in collaboration with the Gulf Studies Center at Qatar University, is organizing a series of discussions featuring leading international and regional experts to discuss various factors and outcomes of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The discussions aim to explore the Russian invasion of Ukraine, its implications for the existing international order, and the diverse perspectives on this war held by different global actors.