Grünfeld Defense, Russian Variation

The Russian Variation of the Grünfeld appears when White answers the Grünfeld Defense with Nf3 and then Qb3. The queen on b3 defends the c4-pawn and adds pressure to d5, the square occupied by Black's central pawn.

Black often responds by capturing on c4. White's queen can then recapture, and White prepares e4 to build a broad center. In return, the queen has come out early and can be attacked by queenside pawn advances or developing pieces. Each time the queen must move again, Black may gain a tempo, meaning a useful move made while forcing the opposing queen to relocate.

White's idea is not simply to defend a pawn. Qb3 coordinates pressure on d5, recovery on c4, and construction of the center. Black accepts that center but tries to attack it with ...c5, rapid development, and moves that harass the exposed queen.

Qb3 coordinates pressure, recapture, and central expansion

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StartNf3Bg7Qb3dxc4Qxc4O-Oe4

Nf3 develops a piece without resolving the tension and prepares the queen placement that defines the Russian Variation.

White maintains the central tension

Instead of exchanging immediately on d5, White develops a piece and prepares additional support for c4.

1. Nf3 develops a piece without resolving the tension and prepares the queen placement that defines the Russian Variation.