Behind the Scenes of US-Russia Space Talks: Cooperation Amid Geopolitical Tensions

After more than seven years without direct dialogue, Russia’s head of Roscosmos, Dmitry Bakanov, has met with NASA’s acting administrator, Sean Duffy, in the United States to discuss continued cooperation on the International Space Station (ISS) and lunar exploration. At first glance, these talks suggest that even in times of strained relations—with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine still reshaping global alliances—space collaboration endures as a symbol of international partnership. But should hardworking Americans celebrate this apparent thaw? The reality demands sober scrutiny. This reunion occurs at a precarious moment when Moscow deepens its reliance on authoritarian allies like China amid Western...