The Russian Concept of Victory: A Structural Interpretation

Victory in Russian military thought cannot be reduced to the immediate seizure of territory or the annihilation of enemy forces. Instead, it is conceived as the creation of conditions that guarantee the survival of the state and the reassertion of its strategic position, even after heavy losses or temporary setbacks. Unlike Western doctrines that equate victory with clear, measurable, and rapid achievements—such as regime change, capitulation, or the occupation of a capital—the Russian definition is rooted in continuity, depth, and resilience. It reflects a historical trajectory shaped by repeated invasions, during which survival itself was often the only criterion of success. This perspective explains why Russia interprets conflict as a long-term process, where victory is not an event but an outcome of endurance. In this framework, battles can be lost, territory can be temporarily conceded, and adversaries can claim tactical gains, but ultimate victory is declared when Russia remains intact, its sovereignty preserved, and its adversary weakened or exhausted. This structural view sets Russia apart from adversaries who prioritize speed and visibility over duration and persistence.