Russia going its own way started basically with the War on Yugoslavia. That was when Russia figured out that NATO wasn't a defensive alliance like they claimed to be. It only sped up with NATO expansion. Particularly to the Baltic countries which are basically next door to St. Petersburg.
All of this predates Putin going into power. The people who control Russia behind the scenes decided then and there that the US couldn't be trusted. Much like the US, Russia also has its own deep state. Putin is just an administrator for them.
All of this predates Putin going into power. The people who control Russia behind the scenes decided then and there that the US couldn't be trusted. Much like the US, Russia also has its own deep state. Putin is just an administrator for them.