How Russia Wields Influence Over America and China Russia’s GDP, at around $2 trillion (nominal, as of recent estimates), is indeed comparable to that of Texas or Guangdong Province, dwarfed by the U.S. ($27 trillion) and China ($18 trillion). Yet, its influence on these giants stems not from economic size but from a combination of strategic assets, asymmetric tactics, and geopolitical leverage.

Putin applies 3 major laws in Robert Green’s 48 laws of power to wield support from wealthy countries:

Law 1: Never Outshine the Master**  
Putin often positions Russia as a partner, not a rival, to wealthier nations. With China, he accepts a junior role in their "no limits" partnership, letting Xi Jinping shine while securing economic lifelines (e.g., $200 billion trade goal by 2024). With India, Russia supplies oil and arms without challenging its global rise, earning loyalty despite Western sanctions. Even pre-Ukraine, Europe’s energy dependence kept it from eclipsing Russia’s influence.

Law 6: Court Attention at All Costs (e.g., bold moves like Ukraine keep Russia relevant).

Law 27: Play on People’s Need to Believe in Something (e.g., offering an anti-Western "multipolar" vision to BRICS nations).

I hope this helps?