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Napoleon's Invasion of Russia
Napoleon's undefeated army invaded Russian Poland, his only real threat unconquered besides the UK. Russia’s victory was detrimental to Napoleon’s dominance of Europe. It led to his defeat, helped coalition allies overthrow him, and showed that he was not invincible -
Russo-Japanese War
First great war of 20th century. Caused because of imperial interest in Korea and Manchuria. Russia lost all fleets except the Black Sea, and the war effected their economy and military, which was made barely stronger than Austria’s, while Japan’s became the 6th Strongest in the world. -
World War I
60-200,000 Jews were killed in Russian Empire. Entered with largest army in the world, caused Russian Civil War. -
World War II
Russia was an ally of western powers, trying to defeat Hitler. After the war Russia occupied most eastern and central European countries, and Communist regimes followed shortly after (Stalin's reign) -
Cold War
Tension between Communist Soviet Union and US, never any direct military action. Lasted until 1991. Result: Soviet Union was dissolved and CIS was created, cut military spending and went to a capitalist economy. -
Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan
Occured during the Cold War, and lasted until 1988. Russians were fighting against Afghan Mujahideen movement, supporting the Marxist-Leninist government. After Russia's withdrawal, civil war continued in Afghanistan, and the Islamists believe that they helped take town the Soviet Regime. -
Wars with Chechnya
Chechnya attempted to gain independence from Russia, but failed in the first part of the war, even after very successfully using guerrilla warfare. Later, Chechnya declared de facto independence, and in the second part of the war Russia invaded once again and gained control of the country. Events and attacks continued between the two countries until 2009. -
Russia's War with Georgia
Started when both countries accused each other of military buildup in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Georgia wanted to reclaim these territories. A cease fire was signed, and an international debate was to be conducted to determine the future of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. However, conflict continued long after the initial war was over, including hate and war crimes, and the killing of Russian officers.
