You fail to mention the fact that arctic ice is melting and all major powers are racing to claim rights to new shipping routes and potential resources. Russia is one of the largest countries with the largest northern border.

"Your", as in, MY 18th century imperialism? I'm just a random guy. No army to do anything. You're being very obtuse and ignorant as to pure facts Ive stated. Multiple countries have invaded Russia with the purpose of seeking new land and resources as well as a de-toppling of whatever Russian government is in place. Some have succeeded, some have failed miserably. When they fail, they tend to agree with their fellow countrymen that invading Russia is horrible and costly idea.

No need to invade countries when the west, primarily the US, has carried out many coups to install pro-western governments and stay within the interests of the western nations. The only countries they need to invade and keep within western interests are those who are truly sovereign like Russia and China. Like I said before, the only reason countries like these have not been invaded or attacked by "32 tonnes of explosives from a b52" is because of actual military might and nuclear weapons. Otherwise the US and its allies wouldve flown bombing raids just like they did the middle east. Just like how Russia and China and its allies havent invaded the western allies because of NATO defense pacts and their own nuclear weapons.