Russie, Chine, Iran | La revanche des empires | ARTE

Name: Russie, Chine, Iran | La revanche des empires | ARTE
Uploaded: 2025-09-03T13:01:28.000Z
Duration: 3 h 6 min 43 s

Army Games: A Display of Power?

Overview of the Army Games

The Army Games, organized annually by Russian President Vladimir Putin since 2014, serve as a demonstration of military strength.

Events include tank shooting, obstacle courses, demining competitions, and even dance contests.

Political Context and Alliances

In August 2022, during the ongoing war in Ukraine, Russia gathered 34 allied countries for the games, most of which are under international sanctions.

These military games aim to enhance international cooperation and strengthen partnerships for security interests globally.

Russia's Position on Global Relations

Putin emphasizes that Russia is not isolated; it has strong allies like China and Iran who support its actions in Ukraine.

The relationship among China, Russia, and Iran is characterized by close cooperation against Western dominance.

The Justification for War

Invasion of Ukraine

On February 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine, marking a significant return to warfare in Europe. Putin claims this is a response to Western aggression rather than an attack on Ukraine itself.

He portrays Ukrainians as misled victims while framing the conflict as one against NATO and the West.

Historical Context of Russian Expansionism

Since coming to power in 2000, Putin aims to restore Russia's status as a global power beyond its political borders. He believes territorial control over historical lands is essential for national identity.

The Kremlin views NATO's expansion towards Eastern Europe as a direct threat necessitating military action against perceived encroachment on Russian sovereignty.

NATO's Role in Escalation

Misconceptions about NATO Expansion

There’s a narrative suggesting NATO provoked Putin through its expansion; however, former Soviet states sought closer ties with the West independently. This shift was particularly evident with Ukraine moving towards Europe rather than NATO expanding eastward into their territory.

Initial Expectations vs Reality

The Kremlin anticipated a swift victory within 72 hours aimed at replacing the Ukrainian government with one favorable to Moscow but faced unexpected resistance instead.

International Reactions

UN Voting Dynamics

On March 2, 2022, only 52 out of 193 countries condemned Russia’s aggression during an UN vote—highlighting significant geopolitical divides where nations like Iran and China abstained or opposed sanctions against Russia.

China's Diplomatic Maneuvers

Russia's Strategic Alliances: The Role of Iran and China

Russia's Need for International Support

Russia aimed to demonstrate its international partnerships during a time when the West sought to isolate it, particularly highlighting collaboration with Iran as a strategic move.

Putin viewed Iran as a low-risk ally, knowing that it would willingly support him, especially in military needs such as acquiring conventional weapons and affordable drones.

Military Cooperation with Iran

Iran not only provided military support but also sent Iranian Revolutionary Guards to Crimea and Russia to train Russian forces on drone usage, marking a significant expansion of Iranian military influence beyond the Middle East.

This cooperation indicates Iran's clear alignment with Russia amidst geopolitical tensions, showcasing their mutual benefits in military collaboration.

China's Strategic Positioning

China's President Xi Jinping met with Putin shortly before the Ukraine offensive, indicating strong ties between the two nations despite China's cautious stance on the war terminology used by Russia.

China refrains from labeling the conflict as a war, instead using terms like "military operation," reflecting its diplomatic strategy while maintaining an interest in stability within Russia.

Strengthening Sino-Russian Relations

During his visit to Beijing for the Winter Olympics, Putin sought to solidify an unprecedented partnership with Xi Jinping that emphasizes shared global visions and objectives against Western influence.

Their joint declaration outlines aspirations for a more equitable world order while challenging Western definitions of human rights and democracy, asserting their legitimacy in promoting alternative approaches.

Redefining Human Rights and International Law

The leaders' statement critiques Western universality regarding human rights, claiming it is imposed by Western powers; they argue for their right to define these concepts based on historical contexts relevant to their nations.

This redefinition poses challenges as authoritarian regimes like those in China and Russia position themselves as defenders of human rights while violating them domestically, creating confusion internationally about legitimate advocacy for rights.

The Emerging Triad: Iran, China, and Russia

The alliance formed through the Ukraine conflict reveals deeper economic ties among Iran, China, and Russia aimed at circumventing international sanctions affecting all three countries due to various geopolitical issues.

Economic Strategies and Alliances: Russia's Response to Sanctions

The Impact of Western Sanctions on Russia

The speaker discusses the existence of 100% Russian entities with no ties to Western companies, emphasizing a complete detachment from Western insurance or shipping firms.

A "ghost fleet" of oil tankers has been acquired globally by Russia, allowing it to circumvent sanctions while continuing oil exports.

This ghost fleet strategy, inspired by Iran, enables Russia to sell oil at lower prices without leaving traces, including sales to the European Union.

Oil Export Tactics and Economic Resilience

Russian oil is reportedly sold at prices above the caps set by Western nations, utilizing nighttime transshipment methods involving French tankers.

China emerges as a primary buyer of Russian oil, with orders increasing by 40% in 2023 amidst ongoing sanctions.

Misconceptions About Sanctions

The speaker argues that Americans and Europeans overestimate their ability to weaken adversaries through economic sanctions.

Historically, sanctions have failed; the economies of Russia and China are complementary—Russia needs Chinese manufactured goods while China requires energy resources.

Formation of New Economic Alliances

In response to sanctions, Russia collaborates with Iran and China to establish an independent economic coalition outside Western influence.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), formed in 2001 by China and Russia, aims to challenge existing international institutions.

Geopolitical Implications of New Partnerships

The integration of Iran into this alliance signifies a strategic move against U.S. hegemony; these countries seek alternative coalitions based on different rules than those imposed by the U.S.

Iran's close diplomatic ties with both Russia and China position it as a key player in Middle Eastern geopolitics.

Historical Context for Anti-Western Sentiment

The collaboration among these nations aims not only for economic resilience but also for establishing new international institutions that counteract American dominance.

This new coalition seeks security for authoritarian regimes against external interference in their internal affairs.

Emergence of a Stable Triangular Alliance

A "triangle of iron" is forming between China, Russia, and Iran—a stable alliance that could reshape global dynamics amid rising authoritarianism.

Each country within this axis has historical grievances against the West that fuel their current alignment against common adversaries.

Historical Roots of Iranian Anti-American Sentiment

For Iran, anti-American sentiment traces back to events like the division of Persia post-Russian-British conflicts in the 19th century and U.S. interventions during its nationalization efforts in 1953.

The Anti-American Sentiment in Iran

Historical Context of U.S.-Iran Relations

The hostility towards the U.S. increased with American support for the Shah of Iran, leading to a revolutionary process starting in 1963 and culminating in the 1979 revolution.

The Iranian Revolution was framed as an anti-imperialist and anti-American movement, aiming to rid Iran of Western influence, particularly that of the U.S. and Israel.

Rise of Ayatollah Khomeini

Ayatollah Khomeini emerged as a key figure during the revolution, organizing efforts from exile in France to overthrow the Shah, whom he viewed as too aligned with the U.S.

Upon his return in 1979, Khomeini established a religious dictatorship that emphasized opposition to the U.S., labeling it "the Great Satan," alongside its ally Israel.

Legacy of Khomeini and Current Leadership

After Khomeini's death in 1989, Ayatollah Khamenei succeeded him, continuing his legacy by seeking to restore Iran's historical grandeur and exporting Islamic revolution.

Khamenei has prioritized preserving the Islamic system through aggressive actions against neighboring countries and supporting militant groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.

China's Historical Grievances Against the West

Opium Wars and Western Domination

For China, historical grievances stem from events like the Opium Wars initiated by Britain in the mid-19th century, which are seen as significant humiliations symbolizing Western domination.

The imposition of unequal treaties allowed foreign powers unrestricted access to Chinese ports while undermining China's sovereignty.

Narrative of Humiliation

This narrative serves as a justification for aggressive behaviors by current leaders; it frames their actions as responses to past injustices rather than unprovoked aggression.

Mao Zedong’s Vision for China

Restoration Goals Post-Revolution

Mao aimed to safeguard communist ideals while restoring territorial integrity by reclaiming lost regions such as Tibet and Taiwan after taking power in 1949.

Xi Jinping’s Continuation of Mao’s Legacy

Since assuming leadership in 2012, Xi Jinping has pursued policies reflecting this legacy by asserting claims over disputed territories like Taiwan and enhancing military presence in strategic areas.

Russia's Sense of Humiliation Under Putin

Personal Experience with Geopolitical Change

Vladimir Putin experienced firsthand Russia's decline during his time at the KGB when witnessing Eastern European nations regain independence post-Cold War.

Restoration Agenda

The Clash of Civilizations: Russia, China, and the West

Historical Context of East-West Relations

The dilemma between Westernizers and Slavophiles has existed since the late 19th century, with Westernizers advocating for a stronger Russia through European alignment, while Slavophiles promote a civilizational confrontation against the West.

Following the fall of the Tsarist Empire and the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, communists established a collectivist model that positioned capitalist Western nations as primary adversaries. Stalin perpetuated this model post-World War II during the Cold War.

Putin's Legacy and Nationalism

Vladimir Putin embodies an inherited narrative of humiliation from past empires, which is often exaggerated or mythologized to rally public sentiment against the West. This narrative serves to unify countries like China, Russia, and Iran against American hegemony.

A shared ideology among these nations—rooted in nationalism, revenge, and imperialism—has emerged over time, leading them towards closer ties with China following the collapse of the USSR.

The Rise of Authoritarian Regimes

Authoritarian regimes are threatened by liberal democratic movements globally; thus they seek alliances to counteract perceived Western influence after events like Tiananmen Square in 1989. The U.S.'s dominance post-Cold War solidified its role as a global enforcer of its values.

NATO's establishment in 1949 symbolized American influence in Europe aimed at curbing Soviet expansion; however, by 1996 both China and Russia feared NATO's enlargement could destabilize their regimes. They began collaborating against Western influence through initiatives like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

Formation of Strategic Alliances

In response to growing Western hostility, China and Russia buried historical conflicts to form a united front against Western values; this cooperation laid groundwork for future strategic partnerships that few anticipated at that time.

Initially pro-Eastern rather than anti-Western, SCO evolved into an organization opposing increasing hostilities from Western powers as member states faced economic and political challenges attributed to Western actions.

Misjudgments by U.S. Politicians

U.S. officials underestimated potential alignments between hostile nations; Senator Joe Biden dismissed concerns about Russian-Chinese rapprochement during his visit to Moscow in June 1997 despite warnings from geopolitical experts about such coalitions forming due to mutual disdain for U.S. policies.

Zbigniew Brzezinski highlighted risks associated with a coalition formed by China, Russia, and possibly Iran based on shared animosity towards America—a scenario that became increasingly plausible over time as these nations sought alternatives amidst international isolation efforts led by Washington post-September 11 attacks on Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Evolution into Formal Organizations

By 2001, China and Russia formalized their collaboration through establishing the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), creating a platform for Eurasian countries rejecting American worldviews—Vladimir Putin quickly aligned himself with this initiative upon taking office.

Iran also sought partnership within SCO but faced exclusion due to its controversial nuclear program; despite initial constructive dialogue possibilities regarding nuclear issues with America post-attacks on September 11th—this shifted dramatically when President George Bush labeled it part of an "axis of evil." Thus prompting Iran’s pivot towards new allies including Central Asia alongside Russia and China fostering strategic concepts among them moving forward into uncharted geopolitical territory amidst rising tensions globally around their collective interests against perceived threats from western powers like America itself.

The Rise of China and Its Global Implications

China's Strategic Growth

China concealed its capabilities while strengthening its economy and developing trade links with the West, avoiding international responsibilities.

The U.S. and Europe initially did not perceive China's economic growth as a threat, mistakenly believing that increased capitalism would lead to greater democracy in China.

American elites underestimated China's ambitions, failing to recognize its desire to become the world's leading power aligned with its economic status.

Geopolitical Tensions and Alliances

Vladimir Putin reacted strongly against Eastern European countries seeking NATO membership, particularly after Georgia and Ukraine's applications in 2008.

Despite attempts by NATO to reassure Russia, Putin invaded Georgia later that year, escalating tensions in the region.

The Emergence of Xi Jinping

Xi Jinping rose to power around the same time as Putin regained control in Russia; their meeting marked the beginning of a strategic alliance against Western influence.

Xi's consolidation of power included suppressing political debate and opposition under the guise of anti-corruption efforts, which garnered admiration from Putin.

Ideological Convergence Between Leaders

Both leaders share a disdain for democracy, viewing it as disruptive to internal order; they see an opportunity for reshaping global geopolitics amidst unprecedented changes.

Their initial meeting fostered an ideological bond that has intensified over time, aligning their interests against Western democratic values.

Regional Conflicts: The Syrian Civil War

By 2012, both leaders were concerned about regional instability following the Arab Spring, particularly regarding Syria's regime under Bashar Al-Assad.

Fears of regime change prompted collaboration between Iran, Russia, and China as they sought to protect autocratic regimes from Western intervention.

Military Cooperation Against Democratic Movements

As Western nations supported pro-democracy movements in Syria without success, Assad resorted to chemical weapons amid increasing violence against civilians.

Russia and China's Strategic Alliance Against the West

Coordinated Obstruction in the UN Security Council

Russia and China are actively working to diminish U.S. influence in their region by developing a coordinated obstruction strategy within the UN Security Council, where both hold veto power over global affairs.

Despite China's commitment to peace and international law, it has repeatedly aligned with Russia to veto resolutions condemning Bashar Al-Assad's actions, showcasing a strategic partnership that undermines international norms.

Manipulation of International Conventions

The alliance between Russia, China, and Iran reflects a willingness to manipulate international conventions for their own interests, particularly regarding chemical weapons investigations.

This manipulation has allowed Assad to maintain power amidst his crimes due to Western failures stemming from this unexpected yet effective alignment of interests.

Emergence of a Triangular Strategic Relationship

Donald Trump's presidency accelerated cooperation among Iran, Russia, and China, leading them to form a strategic triangle aimed at challenging Western dominance.

These nations have begun conducting increasingly frequent joint military exercises designed around perceived threats from the West.

Hybrid Warfare Tactics

The three countries view the West as an enemy and have united under hybrid warfare strategies that encompass visible and invisible fronts.

Since the late 1990s, they have engaged in hybrid warfare against the West aimed at creating chaos within democratic systems.

Information Warfare as a Primary Battlefield

Vladimir Putin believes that U.S. actions led to the USSR's collapse; thus he revitalizes Soviet-era intelligence tactics like active measures for internal destabilization of democracies.

This information war employs disinformation campaigns alongside cyber operations targeting economic stability through corruption and covert funding.

Understanding Modern Conflict Dynamics

A key challenge in understanding rising tensions between authoritarian regimes (like Russia and China) and the West is our binary perception of war—either being at war or at peace.

Recognizing that there exists a spectrum between war and peace is crucial; conflicts can occur without traditional military engagements but still involve significant hostilities through other means.

Evolution of Information Warfare Tools

By the late 1990s, these regimes equipped themselves with necessary tools for modern information warfare including multilingual media outlets and cyber warriors engaging directly on enemy territory.

They utilize social media platforms for propaganda dissemination via bots, trolls, and influencers as part of their ongoing battle against democratic narratives.

COVID-19 Pandemic: A Catalyst for Disinformation Campaigning

The COVID pandemic marked a significant moment where these regimes aligned on misinformation efforts contributing to what was termed an "infodemic" by WHO regarding virus origins.

Origins of COVID-19: A Controversial Narrative

Theories on the Virus's Origin

Claims circulate that COVID-19 is a biological weapon developed by the United States against its enemies, with discussions emerging as early as 2019.

Russian state media propagate theories suggesting American origins of the virus, gaining traction in various networks and platforms.

Chinese officials amplify these conspiracy theories, sharing Russian sources to bolster claims about U.S. responsibility for the virus's creation.

Propaganda Mechanisms

Russian and Chinese propagandists utilize pre-existing conspiracy theories to lend credibility to their narratives about U.S. biological warfare.

Historical context reveals that similar accusations were made during the 1980s regarding HIV/AIDS, linking it back to U.S. military research at Fort Detrick.

Influence Operations

The concept of "Russianization" indicates China's adoption of effective Russian propaganda tactics over recent years.

Russia and China collaborate in a global disinformation ecosystem, sometimes involving Iran, targeting international audiences with false narratives.

Spread of Misinformation

Iranian leadership also disseminates misinformation about COVID-19's origins, claiming it was specifically engineered for Iran using genetic data.

Social media plays a crucial role in spreading content that accuses the U.S. of creating COVID while praising Russia and China's responses.

Erosion of Trust

This disinformation strategy aims to undermine trust in democratic institutions and factual realities over time through gradual exposure to conflicting narratives.

Geopolitical Alliances Against Western Hegemony

China aligns with Iran and Russia to challenge American informational dominance and broader Western influence on global narratives.

Biological Weapons Accusations Resurface

Renewed Conspiracy Theories During Conflict

In 2022, amidst the Ukraine war, new allegations arise from Russian and Chinese media regarding U.S.-Ukrainian labs being fronts for biological weapons production.

Echo Chamber Effect

A feedback loop forms where Chinese government entities repeat Russian lies about biological weapons, creating an echo chamber that amplifies misinformation.

Hybrid Warfare Tactics

Coordinated Disinformation Campaign

Russia, China, and Iran engage in hybrid warfare against democratic regimes through coordinated disinformation efforts aimed at destabilizing public trust.

Targeting Democratic Nations

Security Concerns in the Baltic and Arctic Regions

Russia's Military Interests

The Baltic and Arctic regions are of significant military interest to Russia, raising concerns about security.

Russia aims to assert its regional power, particularly over Europe, which includes exerting influence on Sweden.

Sweden's NATO Integration Request

In early 2023, Sweden's request to join NATO heightened Russian scrutiny due to perceived threats against its borders.

Russian officials warned that if Sweden joins NATO, it would become a target for Russia.

Provocative Actions Impacting Negotiations

A Swedish far-right activist burned a Quran outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm, an act filmed by a pro-Russian journalist.

This incident occurred amid tense negotiations between Turkey and Sweden regarding NATO membership.

Disinformation Campaigns

The media event surrounding the Quran burning is seen as part of a Russian "active measure" aimed at destabilizing perceptions of Sweden.

Russia is known to spread disinformation in Arab countries regarding this incident to provoke strong reactions against Sweden.

The Role of Authoritarian Regimes

Strategies for Destabilization

Both Russia and Iran benefit from portraying Sweden as anti-Islamic, using misinformation to delay its NATO application.

These actions aim to weaken democratic institutions by fostering social discord and distrust among communities.

Information Warfare Dynamics

The ongoing information war represents a struggle between democratic regimes and authoritarian ones, with authoritarian regimes believing they can emerge victorious.

Consequences of Active Measures

Domestic Impacts in Sweden

Following divisions sown within Swedish communities by these measures, an Islamist attack targeted Swedish supporters in Brussels during a football match.

Turkey's Veto on NATO Membership

After prolonged negotiations influenced by U.S. dealings for fighter jets, Turkey eventually lifted its veto on Sweden’s NATO membership at the end of 2023.

Technological Collaboration Among Authoritarian States

China's Influence on Repression Techniques

China leads in providing advanced surveillance technologies that authoritarian regimes like Russia seek to adopt for controlling information flow.

Cooperation Between China and Russia

Leaked documents reveal Russian interest in Chinese internet control systems following visits from Russian propaganda officials seeking collaboration.

Digital Repression Tools

Mechanisms of Censorship

China has developed sophisticated tools for digital censorship that it exports under commercial agreements with allied nations.

Surveillance and Authoritarianism: The Role of China

Exporting Surveillance Technology

China is exporting its digital authoritarianism toolkit, enabling rapid identification of individuals deemed problematic. This technology is being supplied not only to Russia but also to other countries.

In early 2023, the Russian regime launched its own surveillance system named Oulus, inspired by Chinese models. This indicates a growing trend of adopting Chinese surveillance technologies globally.

Iranian Collaboration with Chinese Technology

The Iranian regime has begun utilizing technology from a Chinese company called Tiandi, which is considered highly dangerous yet relatively unknown. Tiandi's AI-powered cameras can detect ethnicity and race, raising significant ethical concerns.

Products from Tiandi have been sold to Iran's Revolutionary Guards and police forces, aiding in the suppression of protests over the past two years, including movements advocating for women's rights.

Expansion of Surveillance Infrastructure

Plans are underway for the installation of 15 million cameras across 28 cities in Iran, with data being transferred to control centers in Tehran and China. This illustrates how such technologies are becoming commercial propositions for China while reinforcing autocratic regimes.

China's promotion of repressive technologies serves to strengthen authoritarian governments while undermining democratic institutions worldwide. This coalition against democracies poses a significant threat on an international scale.

Influence on International Human Rights Institutions

The UN Human Rights Council has become a target for these authoritarian regimes; both Iran and China have managed to gain influence within this institution despite their histories of human rights violations.

A notable incident occurred in September 2022 when the Chinese delegation successfully swayed votes against an investigation into the persecution of Uyghur Muslims, showcasing their strategic diplomatic maneuvers within international bodies.

Redefining Human Rights Concepts

China's strategy involves forming coalitions with like-minded nations that support its positions on sensitive issues while simultaneously redefining human rights terms that challenge its governance model. They promote prosperity as a primary right over individual freedoms, arguing that each nation should define human rights based on its unique context and history.

Understanding the Shift in Global Power Dynamics

The Need for Contextual Legal Systems

There is no universal conception of law; Western legal systems cannot be applied directly to populations like China, which have distinct histories and cultures. A legal framework must align with local heritage.

Geopolitical Changes and Alliances

As of late 2023, geopolitical shifts are occurring that haven't been seen in a century. Countries are forming broader coalitions to navigate these changes effectively.

Emergence of an Alternative World Order

A coalition led by authoritarian countries, particularly China and Russia, is creating an alternative world order that challenges Western democratic values and human rights.

BRICS Summit Developments

At the August 2023 BRICS summit in Johannesburg, significant steps were taken towards expanding this coalition with the inclusion of new emerging economies aimed at isolating the West.

Economic Implications of BRICS Expansion

The integration of Iran into BRICS signifies a diplomatic victory for China and Russia, as they seek to establish a powerful economic bloc that can rival U.S. dominance.

The Push for De-dollarization

Creating an Independent Economic Space

With new members, BRICS now represents nearly half the world's population and a third of its wealth. This coalition aims to create an economic space independent from Western influence.

Challenging U.S. Financial Dominance

The central theme at the 2023 BRICS summit is de-dollarization—reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar in international trade to weaken American sanctions' effectiveness.

Long-term Strategies Against Sanctions

Countries like Iran, Russia, and China plan to develop alternative mechanisms that will undermine U.S. sanctions by facilitating trade without using dollars or euros.

Future Prospects: China's Ambitions

Preparing for Potential Conflict Over Taiwan

An alternative economic space would protect China from Western sanctions if it decides to take aggressive actions regarding Taiwan around 2030 when it may become the leading global economy.

Building Coalitions for National Reunification

Geopolitical Shifts and Regional Dynamics

Iran's Position in the Middle East

Iran emerges as a significant opponent to American influence in the Middle East, particularly following the chaos from the October 7 terrorist attack and Israel's retaliatory actions.

The Iranian regime supports Hamas and Hezbollah, positioning itself as a champion of the Palestinian cause while avoiding direct military engagement.

Iranian-backed militias threaten to escalate tensions further, potentially destabilizing Western interests in the region.

The Rise of Resistance Groups

Resistance groups have gained prominence, necessitating a reevaluation of their role in future regional dynamics.

Iran, Russia, and China are politically benefiting from recent events; they are seen as defenders of oppressed peoples while diverting international attention from other conflicts like Ukraine and Taiwan.

Fragmentation of Global Power

The traditional Western leadership is waning; Iran appears more empowered to pursue its objectives alongside Russia and China.

A fragmented world may lead to regional systems dominated by local powers: Iran in the Middle East, Russia in Eurasia, and China in South Asia.

Europe's Strategic Dilemma

Europe faces challenges regarding its strategic independence amidst competing global blocs led by the U.S., China, and developing economies.

China's efforts to court Europe aim at pulling it away from Western alliances through increased trade and mutual understanding.

NATO's Military Preparedness

NATO conducts significant military exercises involving 90,000 troops since the Cold War's end, highlighting concerns over potential conflict.

There is an urgent need for Europe to solidify its military power; failure to support Ukraine could embolden authoritarian regimes globally.

Reinforcing Democratic Values