- Significant reserves of oil and gas is adding to global power.
- Developed export partnerships to the east and west.
- Russia depends on Europe buying 80% of oil exports, but USA is a keen buyer and China’s demand for oil is growing.
- Power explained when in 2006 Russia cut gas supplies to Ukraine for 3 days over a payment dispute with 4th largest standing army.
- Large military force.
- Devaluation of Russian currency and so the goods were cheaper.
Tensions
- NATO- there is tension with Russia because of the growing number of countries who were once in the USSR joining the EU and NATO.
- Direct Influence – this is where countries gain influence through direct contact with each other.