The Russia–ASEAN summit in Kazan was not only a regional diplomatic event. It was part of Moscow’s attempt to rebuild influence outside Europe, show that Western pressure has not isolated Russia and strengthen its position in Southeast Asia at a moment when the region is shaped by competition between the United States and China. On 18 June 2026, Russia hosted the Russia–ASEAN summit in Kazan, marking 35 years of relations between Moscow and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The