How the kremlin penetrates Sri Lanka’s security structures through “сulture”
russia is expanding its influence in Sri Lanka by using “cultural” projects as a cover to infiltrate the country’s security institutions.
▫️ The State Police Academy has launched its third russian language course for local law enforcement officers with the support of the so-called “russian house.” Training includes not only tourist police but also officers from criminal units and staff of the Prime Minister’s security service. A russian language certificate is presented as a career advancement advantage, and the program is being scaled to other regions of the country.
▫️Formally, this is described as a “cultural exchange,” but in practice it creates long-term channels of influence over state institutions and security structures of partner countries. A significant number of Sri Lankan citizens are already fighting on russia’s side in the war against Ukraine, demonstrating the consequences of this strategy.
The kremlin systematically uses “russian houses” to expand its geopolitical presence: under the guise of language courses and cultural programs, russia fosters loyalty, spreads ideology, and recruits people into its army.
The Center has previously reported on the mass recruitment of Africans for the war against Ukraine through so-called “cultural diplomacy hubs.”
