The Unholy Matrimony: Russia and Violent Non-State Actors

Author

Justin Castro, CUNY Graduate CenterFollow

Date of Degree

6-2025

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Program

Political Science

Advisor

Peter Romaniuk

Subject Categories

Comparative Politics | Defense and Security Studies

Keywords

Russia, Violent Non-State Actors

Abstract

Russia’s contemporary relationship with violent non-state actors has been at the forefront of news due to the conflict in Ukraine. Despite the international shock at this phenomenon, this is an age-old practice for Russia. Since the 17^th century, the Russian state has developed a strategy of utilizing violent non-state actors in order to achieve its geopolitical objectives that consist of expanding its territory, extending its influence abroad, and weakening the capabilities of adversaries. While this strategy seems clear-cut, it contains a rich history of Russia trying to manage its relationship with non-state actors from a position of weakness and strength. In this project, I will explore how Russia has employed violent non-state actors and determine if this relationship has been beneficial or detrimental to the interests of the Russian state across time.

Recommended Citation

Castro, Justin, "The Unholy Matrimony: Russia and Violent Non-State Actors" (2025). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/gc_etds/6252