How Dangerous Is Russia's Military?

The video discusses Russia's growing military spending under Vladimir Putin, making it the third highest defense spender globally by 2012. By 2016, its spending is projected to surpass $100 billion, more than Germany and France combined. This increase, along with Russia's annexation of Crimea and involvement in eastern Ukraine, has alarmed NATO. A report highlights 40 events in 2014 that could escalate tensions into a direct conflict between Russia and NATO. Russia is sending a message of intimidation, opposing NATO's military expansion along its borders. Despite not being as powerful as during the Soviet era, Russia's influence is growing, particularly in Syria and former Soviet territories, posing a perceived threat to NATO.

What events in 2014 were highlighted as potential triggers for conflict between Russia and NATO?

In what ways is Russia's military capability perceived differently now compared to the Soviet era?