The Russian state of affairs is changing rapidly, but it’s not evidently clear yet. This is intended and it’s usually the case for large, powerful states.
Russia is improving its capabilities, but it’s not something for us to celebrate.
Its new nuclear power is something to consider, if not plan a response to. It may be an ongoing problem in diplomatic terms and also in the manner in which we have to relate to Russian advances.
It’s also believed that Russian Intelligence has improved its capability markedly. This is indicated by subtle rearrangements that have been seen in public, and the considered way in which Putin has looked at the war in Ukraine.
Any improvement of this capability at any level is a huge concern to us because of what it means.
It could lead to better understanding of hostile Russian agents against us and our interests. It means we need to be more careful and pay more attention to the detail.
It could mean a much more aware and dynamic news sector in its remit as a branch of the State. This may entail more criticisms and less of a reason to ignore it.
It could increase the interaction we have to undertake – on a serious level – with any Russian institutions that have cultural sway or impact. This means greater dialogue.
The services that a decent Intelligence service provides are invaluable to a state, and if so, may prove to be a boost in prospects for the pariah known as Russia.