Russia plans to join China in challenge to US AI dominance

Artificial intelligence development is becoming increasingly geopolitical as Russia announces plans to create an international AI alliance with BRICS nations and other partners, directly challenging U.S. dominance in this critical technology sector.

Strategic initiative unveiled: Vladimir Putin announced Russia’s intention to develop artificial intelligence through collaboration with BRICS partners and other interested nations, positioning this as a direct challenge to U.S. technological supremacy.

• Putin emphasized Russia’s determination to participate “on equal terms” in the global race to create strong artificial intelligence
• The initiative includes establishing an AI Alliance Network comprising national associations and development institutions
• Scientists worldwide have been invited to join this collaborative effort

Current global AI landscape: The United States and China currently lead global AI development, with both nations investing heavily in advancing their technological capabilities.

• The U.S. has appointed a “White House AI and Crypto Czar” to maintain its technological edge
• Russia currently ranks 31st out of 83 countries in AI implementation according to the Global AI Index
• Stanford University’s AI vibrancy tool places Russia at 29th among 36 evaluated countries

Domestic Russian AI ecosystem: Despite international sanctions, Russia’s AI development is primarily driven by major domestic technology companies.

• Sberbank leads Russian AI development with its GigaChat model
• Yandex has developed YandexGPT, forming a duopoly in Russia’s AI market
• The country aims to increase AI’s contribution to GDP from $1.9 billion in 2023 to $109 billion by 2030

Sanctions and challenges: Western restrictions have significantly impacted Russia’s AI development capabilities.

• Major microchip producers have halted exports to Russia
• Access to crucial GPUs remains a significant challenge, as acknowledged by Sberbank CEO German Gref
• These limitations have forced Russia to seek alternative partnerships and domestic solutions

International collaboration framework: The AI Alliance Network has already secured participation from multiple countries within and outside the BRICS alliance.

• Brazil, China, India, South Africa, Serbia, and Indonesia have joined the network
• The alliance aims to facilitate joint research, develop AI regulations, and create market opportunities
• Member countries will have access to each other’s AI products and markets

Looking ahead: Strategic implications: Russia’s alliance with China and other BRICS nations could reshape the global AI landscape, though significant obstacles remain in closing the technological gap with leading nations.

• Russia is among just 10 countries developing their own generative AI models
• The country has set ambitious goals, including equipping 80% of workers with AI skills by 2030
• However, overcoming hardware restrictions and attracting international collaboration amid geopolitical tensions will be crucial challenges