Comparative analysis of border regions’ economic development of the Russian Federation in 2021-2023

Subject. The article is devoted to a comprehensive analysis of socio-economic development of 37 border regions of the Russian Federation in the context of radical transformation of the geopolitical situation. Objectives. The purpose is to identify patterns of economic development of border territories in the new geopolitical conditions. Methods. The research is based on the systems approach combining methods of comparative, statistical, and spatial analysis. It employs the Rosstat data on the structure and dynamics of GRP for 2021-2023. All the border regions were divided into two groups: those bordering friendly and unfriendly countries. Results. The analysis revealed a significant differentiation in economic development: regions bordering friendly countries showed a 5.4% increase in GRP, exceeding the national average (3.8%), while territories bordering unfriendly countries showed a 0.9% decrease. We identified various adaptation models, i.e. development of production potential in the first group of regions and reorientation of logistics chains in the second. Conclusions. A differentiated approach to the development of border regions is needed, taking into account the nature of neighboring States and domestic economic potential. Successful adaptation requires a combination of measures to develop the manufacturing sector, transport and logistics infrastructure, and new formats for international cooperation.