Russia continues to project the image of a global superpower, yet it increasingly fails to meet the basic criteria of true international leadership—such as economic stability, political unity, global influence, and the ability to inspire or attract others. These shortcomings highlight a nation in decline.

Moscow’s ambitions for global dominance are becoming increasingly unconvincing, particularly given its ongoing war against Ukraine, worsening international isolation, and weakening economy. Despite this, many people around the world still mistakenly view Russia as a superpower. How did this perception arise—and what steps should be taken to address it?

Dive in this topic with Petro Oleshchuk, political scientist, Ph.D, expert at the United Ukraine Think Tank, in his article for The Gaze.

Firstly, Oleshchuk explains that after the Soviet Union collapsed, Russia inherited a vast nuclear arsenal, a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, expansive territory, and the residual momentum of imperial influence.

These elements helped sustain the appearance of superpower status. However, over time, it became clear that such symbols, without real substance behind them, were merely an illusion. Military might without a solid economic foundation becomes more of a liability than an advantage.

In reality, today’s Russia resembles a “defensive empire,” clinging to its fading influence through force rather than persuasion or legitimacy.

Economically, Russia is weak—it contributes only about 2% of global GDP, similar to Spain. Its economy remains highly dependent on oil and gas, which make up more than 40% of its exports—prompting John McCain’s famous remark that Russia is essentially “a gas station with nuclear weapons.”

The sanctions that began in 2014 and intensified sharply in 2022 have pushed out foreign investors, created technology shortages, and driven a brain drain. By 2023–2024, up to one-third of Russia’s national budget was spent on war, sacrificing long-term stability for short-term aggression.

Secondly, political scientist argues that Being a superpower requires more than the capacity to wage war—it also demands the ability to foster peace. Russia, however, has demonstrated only a talent for destruction. Unlike the Soviet Union, which—despite its flaws—had a coherent and globally influential ideology, modern Russia lacks any compelling worldview to offer.

The full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 provided a clear test of Moscow’s actual strength—and Russia failed. The Kremlin did not accomplish its strategic aims, suffered massive military losses, became mired in a prolonged conflict, and cut itself off from the European market. This war laid bare the stark difference between Russia’s projected image and its real power.

As Finnish President Alexander Stubb told former U.S. President Donald Trump, “Russia is no longer a great power.” Genuine superpowers do not rely on coercion and fear—they shape international norms, rather than violate them.

Finally, the expert summarizes that Russia is a revisionist power, but not a superpower. In the 21st century, it acts as a revanchist state aiming to undo the post-Cold War international order. Yet its ambitions far exceed its actual capabilities. Without a strong economy, reliable global partnerships, or a positive international reputation, military strength alone cannot sustain influence—it leads only to stagnation. While Putin’s Russia may appear powerful due to its military assets, it lacks long-term potential.

Can a superpower truly exist today without economic and ideological leadership? Can it lead the world if it inspires fear rather than admiration? These questions answer themselves.

The world must move beyond the illusion of Russia as a pillar of global stability and acknowledge the reality: it is an authoritarian state undermining the foundations of the international system.

Read the full article by Petro Oleshchuk on The Gaze: Why is Russia no Longer a Superpower?

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