For Russia, a strong military is vital to asserting Russian power in the Near Abroad and in defending the country from all possible threats. This is of the highest continuing priority for the Kremlin well into the foreseeable future.
The bear is back, it would seem. From what I’ve read about Russia’s forces, it has a whole lot of fixing up to do before it approaches the level of readiness/training/etc. it had at its Soviet peak. Still, even a rebuilding military is surely a vital asset to Russia and Putin’s plans for her.
I’m not part of the FR Putin Fan Club, but I admit that the man has a very clear vision of strength for his country, and for its place on the world stage. He is a formidable leader, and should not be underestimated.
Bear in mind that Russia has the GDP of Italy.
Isn’t this what drowned the old USSR?
There is some psychological flaw within Russian thinking, that they must continually want to expand their territory by conquering their neighbors. Looking at where they live, who can blame them.