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Europe and Russia: A comparative study of military, economic, and societal strengths
A recent comprehensive study by the French Institute of International Relations (Ifri) analyzed the balance of power between Europe and Russia across military, economic, and societal dimensions. The findings highlight significant contrasts in capabilities and long-term resilience.
According to the report, Europe maintains clear advantages in air, naval, cyber, and space domains, benefiting from advanced technology, tactical coordination, and highly trained personnel. Conversely, Russia retains superiority in ground forces, with up to 950,000 troops compared to approximately 750,000 for NATO countries in Europe (excluding Turkey). The study emphasizes Russia's edge in mass, firepower, mobilization capacity, and endurance.
Economically, Russia faces long-term challenges, including rising inflation, budget deficits, and stagnation risks. Its reliance on energy exports has been affected by the European market's shift, although trade ties with China have strengthened. Europe, by contrast, has successfully navigated the energy decoupling from Russia and is positioned to play a central role in global electrification and climate action by 2030.
From a societal perspective, Europe’s pluralistic democratic systems confer strong legitimacy and resilience, whereas Russia’s authoritarian model centralizes power, limiting transparency and long-term adaptability. Despite the regime’s social control measures and propaganda, uncertainties about post-Putin Russia persist.
The study concludes that Europe possesses the industrial, economic, and military resources to counterbalance Russia—but emphasizes that political will and strategic cohesion are critical. NATO unity and Ukraine's ongoing resistance remain key factors deterring potential Russian aggression.
