1. A Russian three-horse team:
This is the most common meaning. In Russia, a troika was a traditional form of transportation where three horses were harnessed side by side to pull a carriage or sleigh. It symbolized strength, speed, and power.
2. A group of three powerful entities:
This is a figurative meaning that often refers to a political or economic alliance of three powerful institutions. The term is most frequently used in the context of the "Troika" of international lenders, which refers to:
* The European Commission: The executive branch of the European Union.
* The European Central Bank: The central bank of the Eurozone.
* The International Monetary Fund (IMF): An international organization that promotes global monetary cooperation and financial stability.
These three institutions have often been involved in providing financial assistance and setting conditions for countries facing economic difficulties, particularly within the Eurozone.
So, the meaning of "Troika" depends on the context. In most cases, it refers to a group of three, either literally or metaphorically.