<p>The integration of large language models (LLMs) into higher education is rapidly transforming learning and research processes. This study investigates the adoption of one such tool, DeepSeek, a Chinese LLM, in Bangladesh’s higher education sector. It introduces geopolitical concern as a novel construct within the extended unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) framework to assess how national security, strategic alignment, and technological dependency influence trust, privacy concerns, and the behavioural intention to adopt AI tools in an academic context. A quantitative survey of 202 Bangladeshi university students was conducted using the extended UTAUT model. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was employed to analyse the impact of constructs such as performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and geopolitical concerns on behavioural intention and use behaviour. Geopolitical concerns significantly shaped trust and privacy perceptions, indirectly reducing adoption intentions. Despite privacy risks, students viewed DeepSeek in a favourable light due to its free access, cultural alignment, and potential to reduce Western tech dependency. Performance expectancy and facilitating conditions were key drivers of adoption, while social influence and hedonic motivation had negligible effects. This study contributes to the integration of geopolitical factors into AI adoption frameworks, highlighting Bangladesh’s unique position amid a growing diversity of globally available AI models. It emphasises the need for culturally congruent, sovereignty-sensitive AI tools in the Global South. Policymakers and AI developers should address geopolitical sentiments and infrastructure gaps (e.g., internet reliability) to foster adoption. DeepSeek’s frugal innovation model provides a blueprint for emerging economies seeking affordable AI solutions.</p>