Prelude to Conflict: Russia and Ukraine

This chapter examines the contentious lead-up to Russia's war on Ukraine, contrasting the insights of analysts regarding the likelihood of invasion. It reviews the historical context of Ukraine's struggle for identity post-Soviet Union, examining factors such as its size, bilingual nature, and political history. The narrative underscores the complex interplay of regional tensions, historical legacies, and geopolitical interests that shaped the modern conflict.