So about country ideas, how about a different socialist influence propagated by the French in which natives are treated as equal (or almost equal) allies of the commune. (An early socialist backing of native revolts).
In Russia this means the Crimean Khanate, Sakha Republic, Cossack Commune, Central Asian Union,
But also in different parts of the world: First Nations, Plains Indian Federation, Union of Hawaii, Tuareg Tribal Confederacy etc.
It would also be interesting if the Germans, or Ah could break up Russia and recreate the Russian Principalities: Novgorod, Smolensk, Polotsk, Chernigov, Vladmir, Murom, Ryazan etc. and leaving the eastern parts to the ashes. (Remnants of the Russian forces could consolidate themselves behind the Ural, while also the natives and other lands like Turkey and Persia could take some land. They could than fight each other for German support and all of them claiming the old Russian territories.)
It would also be interesting to see some countries for once be efficient, and magnificent. I mean who doesn't want to see a victorious Persia, Armenia, Georgia, Tibet, Ireland etc. (Anything that would make them more interesting, and not historic. History is boring after so many plays. How about Ireland beefing up its military and taking revenge in invading Britain, if they have a chance, or how about creating a new Persian Empire under the Shah.)