1. Continuation of German Dominance:
Germany might have emerged as the dominant power in Europe and possibly beyond. The Nazi regime's expansionist goals would likely have continued, leading to further territorial conquests and attempts at establishing a "Greater German Reich."
2. Territorial Changes:
Russia's defeat could have resulted in significant territorial losses to Germany, including the annexation of Ukraine, Belarus, and parts of the Baltic States. Germany might have also gained control over the Caucasus region and potentially pursued territorial ambitions in Eastern Europe.
3. Political Changes in Russia:
The fall of the Soviet Union might have occurred sooner or taken a different form. The defeat in the war could have led to internal power struggles, social unrest, and a potential fracturing of the country into smaller states. Different political regimes could have emerged, such as a pro-German government or even the reemergence of a fragmented Tsarist-era Russia.
4. Cold War Dynamic Shift:
The Cold War would likely have unfolded differently. With the Soviet Union diminished or dissolved, the United States and its allies might have faced a different geopolitical challenger, potentially leading to alternative Cold War alliances and conflicts.
5. Economic Consequences:
The war would have had severe economic consequences for Russia, leading to widespread devastation and loss of infrastructure. The country's industrial capacity and agricultural resources could have been severely damaged, hindering its recovery and development for years.
6. Global Power Balance:
The absence of a strong Soviet Union would have shifted the global power balance. The United States might have emerged as the sole superpower, or a multipolar world with different regions dominated by various powers could have developed.
7. Changes in Eastern Europe and Asia:
The Eastern European countries that were part of the Soviet Bloc might have experienced different political trajectories, potentially joining Western European alliances or forming new regional alliances. The geopolitical dynamics in Asia could also have been impacted, as the absence of a strong Soviet presence might have affected the balance of power in the region.
It's important to note that these scenarios are hypothetical and speculative. The actual consequences of a Russian defeat in World War 2 would have depended on numerous factors, including the specific circumstances of the defeat, the reactions of other countries, and the subsequent political, economic, and social developments.