Cybersecurity competition among great powers -A case of U.S. and Russia

This study examines the cybersecurity competition between the United States and Russia, highlighting the complex interactions between state and non-state actors within an anarchic cyber domain. The primary objective is to analyze how historical rivalries, power dynamics, mutual mistrust, and socially constructed norms drive this competition and shape national cybersecurity strategies. Additionally, the research explores the roles of non-state actors in influencing the trajectory of U.S.-Russia cyber interactions and policy-making. The research adopts a qualitative case study approach with comparative analysis, drawing on a range of relevant materials, including literature, official statements, policy documents, and expert insights. The findings reveal that the anarchic nature of cyberspace accelerates cyber arms races, increases risks of miscalculation, and enables smaller states and non-state actors to challenge major powers. Historical rivalries and national identities shape interpretations of cyber activities, fueling propaganda and hampering multilateral cooperation. The securitization of foreign cyber activities enhances public support for aggressive cybersecurity policies but raises concerns about civil liberties, particularly in democratic states. Non-state actors, including private cybersecurity firms, blur sovereignty boundaries while influencing national policies, driving innovation, and fostering public-private partnerships. However, this dynamic also raises concerns about surveillance and data privacy. The study concludes that the absence of centralized governance in cyberspace exacerbates conflicts and mistrust, hindering international cooperation. It emphasizes the need for collaborative frameworks to address attribution challenges, define roles for diverse actors, and balance security imperatives with global connectivity. By incorporating perspectives from Neorealism, Constructivism, and the Copenhagen School of Security Studies, the research provides a comprehensive understanding of U.S.-Russia cybersecurity competition and its implications for global cyber stability.