ECONOMIC SANCTIONS AGAINST THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION AS A TOOL TO DETER MILITARY AGGRESSION

In recent years, the Russian Federation's military activities and geopolitical ambitions
have raised concerns among the international community. To address these concerns and
discourage further military aggression, several countries and international organizations have
resorted to economic sanctions as a deterrent strategy. This bachelor thesis aims to examine the
effectiveness of economic sanctions imposed on the Russian Federation as a means of deterring
military aggression.
The study begins by providing a comprehensive overview of economic sanctions, their
historical context, and theoretical foundations. It explores the different types of economic
sanctions, including trade restrictions, financial measures, and diplomatic actions, highlighting
their potential advantages and limitations as tools of coercion. Using a case study approach, the
thesis analyzes prominent instances of economic sanctions imposed on the Russian Federation in
response to military aggression or perceived violations of international norms. These case studies
include sanctions related to conflicts in Ukraine, the annexation of Crimea, and alleged cyber-
attacks, among others. The analysis examines the goals, implementation strategies, and outcomes
of these sanctions, considering factors such as their economic impact, political dynamics, and the
intended behavioral changes in the Russian government.
Furthermore, the study assesses the effectiveness of economic sanctions as a deterrent
tool in the context of the Russian Federation's military aggression. It explores the correlation
between the imposition of sanctions and changes in the Russian government's behavior, military
activities, and foreign policy objectives. Additionally, the thesis investigates unintended
consequences, such as shifts in alliances, economic vulnerabilities, and the impact on civilian
populations. The findings of the case study analysis provide valuable insights into the efficacy
and limitations of economic sanctions as a deterrent strategy against the Russian Federation's
military aggression. The research contributes to the existing literature by enhancing our
understanding of the complex dynamics between economic sanctions, political decision-making,
and military behavior.