The Role of Russia in the 21st century

Especially with Russian irritation after the EU played around in its own backyard [the Ukrainian elections].  AFAIK, the Russians consider the prime players in the world to be the United States and the European Union [economically], and 2nd rate economies to be that of China, India and Brazil.  According to an article published in the August issue of Foreign Affairs Journal the Russians want to return to position No. 1.