The expansionist tendencies of the current Russian regime, particularly under Vladimir Putin, indeed suggest an ambition to restore a 'Greater Russia' or a sphere of influence reminiscent of the Soviet era, albeit without the communist ideological underpinnings. This ambition is manifested through various geopolitical actions and a consistent narrative emphasizing Russia's historical greatness and its role as a major global power.

Evidence of these tendencies includes:

1. Territorial Annexation and Support for Separatists: The annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, including the recognition and subsequent annexation of four Ukrainian regions, are clear examples. Russia also supports separatist regions in Georgia (Abkhazia and South Ossetia) and Moldova (Transnistria), maintaining a military presence there.
2. Military Interventions: Beyond its immediate neighborhood, Russia has projected power through military interventions, such as in Syria, to support allies and challenge Western influence.
3. Geopolitical Assertiveness: Russia consistently challenges the unipolar world order dominated by the United States, advocating for a multipolar system where it plays a central role. This involves opposing NATO expansion and seeking to reassert control over former Soviet republics.
4. Historical Narratives: The regime frequently invokes historical narratives of Russian imperial glory and Soviet power, portraying itself as a protector of Russian-speaking populations and a bulwark against perceived Western aggression.

While the current regime does not seek to resurrect the Soviet Union's communist ideology or its exact political structure, it aims to restore a similar geopolitical standing and sphere of influence. This involves securing its borders, preventing the encroachment of Western alliances, and projecting power into regions historically considered within Russia's orbit. The motivations are complex, encompassing national security concerns (e.g., perceived threat from NATO), domestic legitimacy (rallying support through nationalist sentiment), and a desire to reclaim great power status on the international stage. This pursuit of a 'Greater Russia' has led to significant international condemnation, sanctions, and increased global instability, fundamentally reshaping the post-Cold War international order.