Does this put them on a par with France?
Similar. They're involved politically, but not militarily.
It seems appropriate to me that Russians have a seat at the table when European concerns are being discussed. They are Europe's largest country in terms of Land and military power , all of Europe depends on them for fuel.
Russia is a natural tradeing partner with Europe , West and East , as they develop perhaps a more advanced government they may become leaders in the sphere without haveing to shoot their way to the front.
