Understanding Russia: A Comprehensive Overview

Russia's geography and imperial past created an obsession with security, great power,

and influence. Authoritarian rule and WWII trauma fostered a 'besieged fortress' narrative,

positioning Russia as a civilizational pole. Antagonism towards the West stems from NATO expansion,

Cold War legacy, and Putin's WWII mythology. Putin's elevation by Yeltsin was not

inevitable. The Kremlin manufactured his popularity using media. Putin consolidated power

by controlling media, neutralizing oligarchs, and centralizing authority under him. FSB empowerment,

economic boom, yet managed elections and fraud ensure Putin retains power. The FSB expanded

powers, controlling intelligence, shaping state ideology, and repressing opposition. Loyalty and budgets