The Russian Experience in Cyber Wars: The Ukrainian War as a Model

التجربة الروسية في الحروب السيبرانية "الحرب الأوكرانية نموذجاً 2014-2022"

Abstract

In light of the rapid technological revolution characterizing the modern era, digital transformations have penetrated all forms of social, economic, and political interaction. Their impact has not been limited to civilian spheres but has extended to the very nature of warfare itself, as contemporary conflicts have increasingly assumed non-traditional forms, with a significant part being conducted in cyberspace as a central instrument of international conflict, competition, and dominance. In this context, Russia has emerged as a key international actor that has strategically exploited the cyber domain, mobilizing its technical, intelligence, and military capabilities to make cyberspace a core element of power and deterrence within its security doctrine. Cyber warfare has thus become one of the most prominent features of political, economic, and commercial conflicts among states, targeting critical infrastructure, governmental facilities and institutions, industrial networks, and research and knowledge centers, thereby disrupting state functions and threatening national security. This study aims to provide a clear analytical perspective on cyber warfare, with particular emphasis on the Russian–Ukrainian war as a contemporary case study, and to examine the consequences arising from it at both the security and political levels. The study adopts a content analysis approach to identify and analyze the patterns and strategies of cyber warfare employed by Russia within its security strategy in the confrontation with Ukraine, with the objective of preserving its security and reinforcing its international influence and dominance. Among the most significant findings is that cyberspace has become a new and open arena for international conflict, through which destructive and disruptive actions are carried out, particularly attacks on information systems and networks, posing a direct threat to state security and stability.