It all sounds very reasonable and well researched but the story and words of Alexandra Tolstoy shed some light om Putins motivations and actions that are 'first hand' and shows a man that cares not so much about restoring some empire but has a personality disorder and is manily concerned with himself and takes the western 'humiliation an disrespect' extremely personal.
Quote: "There isn't some great strategy restoring the USSR, I don't think he cares less, it's more about himself, the recognition that he's feeling.