SPUTNIK V

By:
Kaushik Pujala
500089095
 INTRODUCTION
• The COVID-19 pandemic has been a defining moment in contemporary
international relations. The search for a vaccine became a global race, not just
against the virus but also for influence and prestige.
• The Sputnik V vaccine, developed by the Gamaleya Research Institute in Moscow,
emerged as a key player in this global struggle for vaccination.
• Its development, approval, distribution, and reception in the international arena
have raised important questions about power, trust, and cooperation in the age of
pandemics.
 THE DEVELOPMENT OF SPUTNIK V

The development of the Sputnik V vaccine, hailed as a pivotal achievement in the battle
against COVID-19, represents a remarkable fusion of scientific expertise, innovative
technology, and global collaboration. The vaccine, developed by Russia's Gamaleya
Research Institute, followed a rigorous development process that unfolded in several key
phases.

1. Viral Vector Technology: Sputnik V deploys a viral vector platform, a cutting-edge

approach in vaccine development. It utilizes two adenoviruses, Ad26 and Ad5, both
harmless to humans, as vectors to transport a segment of the genetic code responsible for
the spike protein found on the surface of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

2. Pre-Clinical Studies: Before advancing to human trials, the vaccine underwent extensive
pre-clinical testing. Animal models provided essential data on its safety profile and its ability
to stimulate a robust immune response.
3. Phase 1 and Phase 2 Clinical Trials: These initial trials involved small groups of
volunteers. Their primary objectives were to evaluate the vaccine's safety, determine the
appropriate dosage, and assess its ability to induce an immune response. Encouraging
results from these phases paved the way for larger trials.

4. Phase 3 Clinical Trials: Sputnik V entered Phase 3 trials involving tens of thousands of
participants across multiple countries. These trials aimed to ascertain the vaccine's
efficacy and safety in diverse populations. Rigorous data collection and analysis were
conducted to provide robust evidence.

5. Emergency Use Authorization (EUA): An unprecedented move, Russia granted Sputnik

V emergency use authorization in August 2020, even before Phase 3 trials concluded. This
decision sparked international discussions about the vaccine's safety and the expedited
approval process.
6. Data Transparency: To address concerns regarding transparency and credibility,
the developers of Sputnik V eventually published detailed Phase 3 trial results in a
reputable medical journal, providing a more comprehensive view of the vaccine's
efficacy and safety.

7. Regulatory Approvals: Sputnik V sought regulatory approvals in multiple countries,

some of which independently reviewed the vaccine's data and granted authorization
for its use. Others opted to await the completion of Phase 3 trials or further data.

8. Ongoing Monitoring and Adaptation: Like all COVID-19 vaccines, continuous

monitoring and adaptation were vital. Sputnik V developers remained vigilant in
studying its performance against emerging variants of the virus, making adjustments
as necessary.
 ROLE OF SPUTNIK V IN VACCINE DIPLOMACY

• The development of vaccines against COVID-19 was not only a matter of

healthcare but also a matter of diplomacy.
• The race to produce and distribute vaccines became a geopolitical struggle,
with countries aiming to leverage their vaccine capabilities for strategic and
political gains.
• Russia's Sputnik V vaccine quickly became a tool of vaccine diplomacy.
 EARLY ROLLOUTS AND CONTROVERSIES

• The initial rollout of the Sputnik V vaccine was marked by controversy. In August
2020, Russia declared that it had developed the world's first COVID-19 vaccine,
even before the completion of phase 3 clinical trials.
• This move was met with skepticism and criticism from the international
community, as it was seen as hasty and potentially risky.
• For Example : EU Disunity: The EU's lack of a unified approach to Sputnik V
demonstrated the divisions and disunity within the bloc. Some member states
expressed interest in the Russian vaccine, while others remained skeptical or
cautious.
 SKEPTICISM AND ACCUSATIONS

• The international skepticism towards Sputnik V was partly due to a

lack of transparency in the early stages of its development.
• Questions were raised about the data provided by Russia and
concerns were voiced about the vaccine's safety and efficacy.
• Accusations of "cutting corners" to gain an early advantage in the
vaccine race further fueled suspicions.
 GEOPOLITICAL IMPLICATIONS OF SPUTNIK V

• Vaccine Nationalism: Sputnik V's development and approval highlighted the

trend of vaccine nationalism, where countries prioritized their own citizens over
global cooperation. Russia's early approval of the vaccine exemplified this
approach, leading to concerns about unequal access to vaccines on a global
scale.
• Soft Power and Influence: The successful distribution and use of Sputnik V in
some countries enhanced Russia's soft power and influence. By providing
vaccines to countries in need, Russia gained geopolitical leverage and
cultivated relationships with its recipients.
• Vaccine Diplomacy: Russia engaged in vaccine diplomacy by exporting Sputnik
V to other countries. This strategy aimed at strengthening political and
economic ties while expanding Russia's global influence.
 DIPLOMATIC AND POLITICAL REMIFICATIONS

• Bilateral Agreements: Russia inked agreements with several countries for the
production and distribution of Sputnik V. These agreements contributed to the
strengthening of bilateral relationships and partnerships.
• Geopolitical Rivalries: The distribution of Sputnik V was viewed through the lens of
global power competition, particularly in the context of the United States and China.
Russia's vaccine diplomacy was seen as a challenge to their dominance in
international affairs.
• Counter-Diplomacy: Some countries, including the United States and European
Union, questioned the motives behind Russia's vaccine diplomacy efforts and
responded with their own vaccine distribution initiatives, aiming to counterbalance
Russia's influence.
 SPUTNIK V AND GLOBAL SOUTH

• Sputnik V's outreach was not limited to Western or developed countries. Russia actively sought
partnerships with countries in the Global South. This approach presented unique opportunities and
challenges in international relations.
• Access for Developing Nations: Russia positioned itself as a supporter of developing nations, offering
vaccines and technical assistance to countries that lacked resources for vaccine procurement and
distribution.
• Global South Alliances: By working closely with countries in Africa, Latin America, and Asia, Russia aimed
to establish alliances that could potentially counterbalance Western influence in international organizations
and affairs.
• Vaccine Competition: Russia's involvement in the Global South sparked competition among major powers.
It raised questions about the ethics of vaccine diplomacy and the potential consequences of a fragmented
and competitive approach to vaccine distribution.
 CHALLENGES AND CRITICISM

• Efficacy and Safety Concerns: Persistent doubts about the safety and efficacy of the vaccine
hindered its acceptance in some countries. Several nations awaited comprehensive data and
regulatory approvals from reputable health agencies before accepting the vaccine.
• Global Acceptance: Sputnik V encountered mixed levels of acceptance internationally. While
some countries readily embraced it, others remained cautious, given the lack of transparency in
its early development.
• Production Capacity: Russia faced challenges in scaling up the production of Sputnik V to meet
global demand. Ensuring an adequate supply of the vaccine for export became a logistical
challenge.
 CONCLUSION

• Sputnik V vaccine's journey in international relations is a complex tale of

geopolitics, diplomacy, and global health
• Russia's pursuit of vaccine diplomacy raised questions about ethics,
transparency, and cooperation in times of crisis
• Vaccines can be leveraged for political and strategic ends, but also face
significant challenges and skepticism on the international stage
• The case study highlights the importance of fostering trust and transparency in
international collaboration, even in the midst of geopolitical competition and
pandemics.
THANK YOU