What is its nature (modern or historical) that makes Russia's leadership so bellicose and bullying?

Question

What is its nature (modern or historical) that makes Russia's leadership so bellicose and bullying?

Answer 1

Over many centuries, they have proved that they can act the part of bullies and succeed.  The Russians have survived countless attempts to conquer or quiet them and have always prevailed in the end.

Of course, they have suffered many setbacks, such as the failed invasion of Afghanistan, but they have succeeded in developing a magnificent military and technological base from which they can bellow all they want.