This paper explores Russia’s Asian national identity and the intersection between that identity and its foreign policy, particularly focusing on its limitations in East Asia. Rather than confining the analysis to post-Soviet debates, this study examines the enduring Asian dimension of Russia’s national identity that has persisted over centuries. Despite efforts to engage the region, Russia remains a peripheral player in Asia, often excluded from key regional organizations and negotiations. In the long term, Russian policymakers acknowledge their country’s relatively weak position in the region dominated by large, powerful nations with rapidly advancing economies and technology. In the eyes of many in Asia, Russia appears small and fragile by comparison. Nonetheless, the remarkable economic rise of East Asia has drawn Russia’s attention, representing one of the most significant geopolitical developments of the twentieth century. This economic transformation is shifting the global balance of power between Asia and the West. Even amid the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war, Russia’s role in Asia continues to occupy a dual position: while its image has deteriorated further due to the invasion—seen by many in Asia as aggressive and imperialistic—Russia has also intensified outreach to Asian countries, including adversarial neighbors aligned with Western sanctions. Notably, its military alignment with North Korea indicates a search for emergency support, while Russia continues to send conciliatory signals to other Asian states to avoid further alienation. In this context, the longstanding debate on Russia’s dual national identity—European and Asian—becomes especially relevant. This duality helps explain Russia’s increasing pivot toward Asia following the collapse of its relations with Europe. Despite its damaged reputation, Russia continues to express its desire to be recognized as part of the Asian community. However, without significant efforts to reshape its image and policy approach, it will be difficult for Moscow to alter its current trajectory in the long run.