In the 21st century, positions of Russia in the world have essentially strengthened. It seems that this country has finally overcome all cataclysms of the end of the 20st century and became a great power again. However, the revival of Russia as a great power is an illusion rather than a reality. Contemporary Russia is characterized by numerous geopolitical contradictions. These contradictions are caused by both historical factors and Putin’s revanchist, imperialist policy. There are many parallels between contemporary Russia and the late USSR. The author concludes that Russia is close to imperial overstretch and will soon collapse.