RTN4 - Unit 9: Russia

What has been one of the main reasons for Beijing's close observation of the Kremlin's leadership changes?

• Russia's membership in NATO

• Russia's revival as a major power

• Russia's alliances with European countries

• Russia's technological advancements

How did Putin's arrangement with Medvedev in December surprise Beijing?

• Medvedev was expected to become the president

• Putin was expected to become the prime minister

• It was believed that Putin would retire

• Few Chinese observers anticipated Putin retaining significant power

Paraphrase this expression:

Putin would have his cake and eat it too

How does the West perceive Putin's rule in contrast to Beijing?

• As a move towards democracy

• As an improvement in human rights

• As a departure from democracy

• As an economic failure

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a key achievement of Putin's tenure according to Beijing?

• Transformation from chaos to stability

• Transition from poverty to prosperity

• Strengthening Russia's technological sector

• Recentralization of power

What is one significant unresolved project between Russia and China mentioned in the article?

• A joint space mission

• The Siberia-China oil pipeline

• A military alliance treaty

• A trade agreement on agricultural products

Paraphrase this expression:

a matter of substance vs. form

What has been a key element of the current Sino-Russian strategic partnership?

• High level of trust between political elites

• Economic competition

• Mutual distrust

• Frequent military conflicts

What challenge does the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) face according to the article?

• Expanding into the European Union

• Balancing diverse religious and cultural systems

• Integrating with NATO

• Developing nuclear capabilities

What is one major concern for Beijing regarding Russia's future actions under the Medvedev-Putin team?

• Russia's declining military strength

• Russia's alliance with Western countries

• Russia's withdrawal from the SCO

• Increasing Chinese immigration into Russia's far eastern region