Russia as a Super Power Again?

• 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 4^th 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.