I think that main reason Russian "sphere of influence" has shrunk is that they literally attacked and annexed parts of neighbours, supporting insurgents with th

I think that main reason Russian "sphere of influence" has shrunk is that they literally attacked and annexed parts of neighbours, supporting insurgents with their own military. Hundreds of thousands are dead over last 30 years because of Russian invasions. Millions are dislocated. Be it Chechnya, Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova etc.