The IMEMO Institute of World Economy and International Relations, Russia’s premier think tank, marked its 70th anniversary with a bang – literally – at the XII International Scientific and Expert Forum “Primakov Readings” in Moscow on June 23-24, 2026. The forum gathered a staggering 400 experts from 17 countries to debate the shifting global order and the rapidly changing landscape of international relations.
Expert Insights on Regional Conflicts
Audiences were treated to talks from some of the world’s top experts in international relations, including **Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov**. The gathering’s central theme, “World Without Rules: Power Game?”, provided a platform for high-stakes discussions on pressing issues like regional conflicts in the Middle East, the ongoing Ukraine-Russia crisis, and the implications of AI in geopolitical competition.
**Professor Andrei Sushkov**, a renowned expert on Russian foreign policy, emphasized the growing role of AI in modern warfare, stating, “The use of AI in military operations is becoming increasingly prevalent, and it’s only a matter of time before we see AI-powered drones and other autonomous systems being deployed on battlefields worldwide.”
The Rise of AI in Geopolitics
The forum also shed light on the rapidly advancing field of artificial intelligence and its potential to disrupt global power dynamics. **Dr. Luba Ognivets**, a leading AI researcher, highlighted the significant implications of AI on international relations, “The increasing reliance on AI systems in military, economic, and social spheres will fundamentally change the way nations interact with each other and compete for influence.”
The forum’s focus on AI’s role in geopolitics sparked heated debates about the potential benefits and risks of AI-driven decision-making. Attendees were left pondering the future of international relations in the face of this emerging technological landscape.
What this means
The “Primakov Readings” event underscores the pressing need for nations to address the complex issues arising from AI’s growth in international relations. As AI becomes increasingly integral to global competition, it’s crucial for policymakers and experts to engage in open, informed discussions about its potential consequences and benefits. This event serves as a stark reminder that the future of geopolitics will be heavily influenced by the development and application of AI technology.
