The problem from the way I see it is that Russia will likely find new customers for their exports. That is already in the works.

But that is infrastructure that will need huge investment. With China on their side, that investment may be worth it and possible.

One further question, however, is whether Putin will live to see this all through. It's likely someone from his inner circle (with a similar vision) will replace him and continue his efforts.

But we will all have to see how this plays out; there's no way to tell for certain.

I appreciate the challenging critique.