The revival of Russia after the Soviet Union broke apart offers a complicated story filled with challenges and goals.

A Bit of History
When the Soviet Union ended in 1991, Russia had a rough time with its economy and government. But under President Vladimir Putin, Russia started to regain its strength. This was thanks to the government taking control again and creating a new sense of national pride.

What Russia Wants
Russia's main goals can be broken down into three key areas:

• National Security: Keeping its borders safe and having a strong military.
• Regional Influence: Growing its presence in countries that used to be part of the Soviet Union and building strong friendships with allies.
• Resource Control: Taking charge of its natural resources, especially energy like oil and gas.

Moving on the World Stage
Russia is making moves on the global stage in several ways:

• Ukraine: When Russia took Crimea in 2014, it showed the world that it wanted to have a stronger say in Eastern Europe.
• The Arctic: Russia wants to be a major player in the Arctic for navigation and getting natural resources.
• Middle East Presence: In Syria, Russia is showing its power and trying to push back against Western countries getting involved.

Russia and NATO
Russia doesn’t have a smooth relationship with NATO. It feels like NATO is getting too close to its territory. In response, the West has set up penalties and increased military presence, which highlights the ongoing tension between both sides.