Russian President Vladimir Putin has directed the government and state-owned Sberbank to strengthen partnerships with China in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI). The announcement, published on the Kremlin’s official website Wednesday, comes just weeks after Putin declared Russia’s intent to collaborate with BRICS nations and other partners to advance its AI capabilities.
The directive emphasizes the need for Russia’s leadership in AI, urging both the government and Sberbank to bolster ties with China in technological research and development. “Ensuring further collaboration with China in the field of artificial intelligence” is a top priority, according to Putin.
Western sanctions targeting Moscow’s access to advanced technologies—particularly those needed for its ongoing conflict in Ukraine—have dealt a significant blow to Russia’s AI ambitions. Key suppliers of microchips have ceased exports to Russia, creating a bottleneck for essential components like graphics processing units (GPUs), which are critical for AI development.
Sberbank CEO German Gref admitted in 2023 that replacing GPUs remains a significant hurdle for Russia. Amid these challenges, the Kremlin is seeking alliances with non-Western nations to counterbalance U.S. dominance in AI, a sector poised to shape the future of global technology.
Putin recently announced the formation of an AI Alliance Network, which aims to unite specialists from BRICS nations and other interested countries. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to position Russia as a key player in the global AI landscape.
However, Russia faces stiff competition. According to the UK-based Tortoise Media’s Global AI Index, Russia ranks 31st among 83 countries, trailing behind the United States, China, and even BRICS counterparts India and Brazil in terms of AI innovation, implementation, and investment.
The latest move underscores Russia’s resolve to close the gap and advance its AI capabilities through strategic international partnerships, with China emerging as a pivotal ally in this effort.
