<![CDATA[Learning a foreign language is not only about mastering grammar and vocabulary, but also about gaining a deep understanding of the value systems and worldviews of the native speakers. For Russian language learners in Indonesia, particularly in higher education, fundamental differences between the communication patterns and social norms of the two nations often create cultural barriers that lead to misunderstandings and decreased motivation to learn. On the other hand, Indonesia's rich local wisdom, which emphasizes harmony and humanity, is rarely used as a means of introducing foreign cultures. This study aims to describe the cultural barriers faced by Indonesian learners, identify the intersection of Indonesian local wisdom with Russian cultural values, and design a model for integrating local wisdom into Russian language learning. Using a descriptive qualitative approach and comparative study, data were collected through classroom observations, analysis of student communication errors, and a study of the cultural literature of both nations. The results indicate that values such as tepa selira (community), kerukunan (harmony), and gotong royong (mutual cooperation) have a close correlation with the concepts of sobornost' (spiritual togetherness) and sincerity in Russian culture. Integrating these values as a starting point for learning has been proven to reduce cultural resistance, facilitate understanding of contextual meaning, and build awareness that differences in communication styles are not a form of impoliteness, but rather a reflection of distinct cultural identities. Keywords: local wisdom; Russian language learning; cultural barriers; cross cultural awareness; intercultural communication]]>
