As the world's largest nation, the Russian Federation has become a key player in world affairs since the turn of the 21st century. Events within Russia and surrounding former Soviet republics have raised questions about whether Russia's government has successfully transitioned away from the totalitarianism of the Soviet Union to a federal democracy. At the same time, international relations between Russia and the West contain echoes of Cold War distrust, as Russia seeks to solidify its foothold as a strong world power. From internal strife over the rights of citizens to concerns about international terrorism's effect on Russia's security, the breakdown of diplomacy with the European Union and the United States to renewed efforts to negotiate on economic and political issues in the wake of election meddling accusations, Russia's place in the world's news cycle continues to hold the world's attention on a daily basis.