This article analyzes features than, due to their persistence in extended historical periods, can be considered key elements to form the identity of the Russian Nation. These "deep forces" are: excepcionalism, messianism, externalism, territorialism and the key role of the State. The article deals with the "organized forces" such as burocracy and state agencies. It also considers the weigh and the standing of some of these streams in the debates over the contemporary foreign policy.
Russian deep strengths; Messianism; Excepcionalism; Statism