San Marino, a tiny micro-state, is causing concern for its much larger neighbor, Italy, due to its friendly relations with Russia. According to the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), social and political trends in the world’s fifth-smallest country closely mirror those of Italy. However, Italy is a founding member of NATO and supports Ukraine against Russia.
Watch the above video as Straight Arrow News contributor Peter Zeihan explains why and how San Marino’s politics diverges from Italy’s.
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Excerpted from Peter’s June 24 “Zeihan on Geopolitics” newsletter:
Micro-states like Monaco and San Marino aren’t often included in major geopolitical discussions, but every so often they get called up to the big leagues. Next up to the plate: San Marino.
San Marino, located in Italy, has recently gotten some attention… and not the best kind. As the Ukraine war rages on, Europe has tightened its intelligence operations and foiled the covers of many Russian agents. However, many of these agents have found San Marino to be quite accommodating in facilitating their entry into the European Schengen zone.
As you could imagine, Italy isn’t too happy with San Marino becoming a hub for Russian activity. So, to answer the age old question — does size matter? — I’ll give you every strategist’s favorite answer, it depends.