Containment by commerce: Exclusionary geoeconomics in the U.S.–Russia confrontation under the Biden administration

Şahin M., Okur M. A.

COMPARATIVE STRATEGY, vol.44, no.6, pp.800-811, 2025 (Scopus) identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 44 Issue: 6
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1080/01495933.2025.2522123
  • Journal Name: COMPARATIVE STRATEGY
  • Journal Indexes: Scopus, Academic Search Premier, IBZ Online, International Bibliography of Social Sciences, Periodicals Index Online, Business Source Elite, Business Source Premier, PAIS International, Political Science Complete, Public Affairs Index, Worldwide Political Science Abstracts
  • Page Numbers: pp.800-811
  • Yıldız Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This article analyzes the Biden administrations geoeconomic response to Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine as a case of exclusionary strategy. Drawing on an original typology of geoeconomic approaches, it argues that the United States pursued a dual-track policy: punishing Russia through unprecedented sanctions while bolstering Ukraine’s resilience via large-scale aid. This exclusionary geoeconomic posture aimed to contain Russian aggression without military confrontation. The article evaluates the design, implementation, and limits of this strategy, highlighting its partial effectiveness and strategic constraints. It contributes to strategic studies by linking intent-based economic statecraft with contemporary great-power competition.