Conceptual-theoretical identifications of the concept “soft power”

Currently, in the specialized literature, but also in the speech of political leaders, the term “soft power” is used more and more often. The war in Ukraine, the inclusion of the invasion of the Russian Federation and the use of “soft power” as a mechanism of influence in the neighboring state brought back to the table the issue with reference to the phenomenon of “soft power”. This article examines the development of the concept of “soft power” and instrumentalization factors in influencing foreign states. According to the specialized literature, the foundations of the concept of “soft power” produce cultural, economic and technological attraction. At the same time, the Russian Federation considers this concept as a mechanism to promote its interests and foreign policy in a coercive way in the states of the so-called “close neighborhood”. The theoretical analysis of the concept of “soft power” shows that it derives mainly from the ability to affect or influence the “actors” of international relations. Unlike “soft power”, “hard power” aims to affect the “conditions” of international relations. Starting from these reasonings, currently, the Russian Federation, in order to achieve its own interests, is oriented towards the use of “soft power”, while also resorting to the use of the entire set of “hard power” actions.