Geopolitical Challenges of Russia

Russia, despite being the largest country, lacks natural geographic barriers, making it vulnerable. To secure its territory, Russia has historically expanded to distant geographic barriers. However, the Northern European Plain remains a strategic vulnerability, as it provides a direct path to Russia's heartland. This plain has been a route for major historical invasions, including those by Napoleon and Hitler. Russia aims to control the lands up to the Polish funnel to prevent easy access to its core.

What is a major reason for Russia's vulnerability despite its size?

• Lack of natural geographic barriers in its core region

• Overpopulation in urban areas

• Economic instability

• Political fragmentation

Which geographic feature has Russia historically used to protect its territory?

• Deserts

• Rivers

• Major geographic barriers

• Forests

What is the Northern European Plain?

• A mountain range in Asia

• A desert in Africa

• A gap between the Carpathian Mountains and the Baltic Sea

• A river in South America

Why is the Northern European Plain significant to Russia's defense?

• It is a major economic hub

• It is a narrow passage that can be easily defended

• It is a cultural center

• It is a gap that allows easy access to Russia's heartland

What is the 'Polish funnel'?

• A mountain pass in the Caucasus

• A narrow point in the Northern European Plain

• A river crossing in Siberia

• A trade route in Central Asia

Which historical figure did NOT attack Russia through the Northern European Plain?

• Hitler

• Wilhelm II

• Genghis Khan

• Napoleon

What strategic goal does Russia have regarding the lands between it and the Polish funnel?

• To develop tourism

• To control these lands to prevent attacks

• To establish trade routes

• To build cultural centers

What happens once an attacker passes the Polish funnel?

• They reach the Pacific Ocean

• They face a series of natural barriers

• They have an open march to Russia's heartland

• They encounter strong Russian fortifications