Russia is restructuring its foreign relations efforts with the establishment of a new directorate that retains the functions of its predecessor while presenting a cleaner public image.
In August 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the dissolution of the Presidential Directorate for Cultural Relations with Foreign Countries, replacing it with the Presidential Directorate for Strategic Partnerships and Cooperation (USPS). Officially, this new organization aims to focus on soft power and the development of foreign relations. However, it is widely recognized as a direct successor to the previous apparatus, notorious for its involvement in electoral manipulation, political influence, and the coordination of intelligence operations abroad.
The architect behind this reorganization is Sergei Kiriyenko, the first deputy head of the presidential administration. He has been instrumental in creating a structure that seeks to operate with a more 'clean' image than its predecessor, officially distancing itself from ties to secret services while effectively retaining the same functional responsibilities. This shift seems designed to facilitate Russian influence in geopolitically pertinent regions without the negative associations of overt intelligence operations.
Initially, Igor Chaika was considered as the leading candidate to head the new directorate but was ultimately sidelined, reportedly due to sanctions-related concerns and complications arising from his past involvement in Moldova. This internal maneuvering reflects ongoing dynamics within Russian leadership and the emphasis on a strategy designed to adapt to international pressures while maintaining influence in key areas, such as Hungary and Armenia, where the new structure is currently being tested.
