That the term "American Empire" is misused doesn't cancel its existence as a new form of alliance-networked empire.

"Russian Federation" is the biggest oxymoron on the planet.

Putin has no succession plan. Being a terminal narcissist, he is Russia's great de-institutionalizer.

Lawlessness: The Dutch Republic was an empire that respect bond covenants and put the rules (laws) above the rulers, unlike the Habsburg absolute monarchy they defeated.