From the archive: Was it inevitable? A short history of Russia’s war on Ukraine
Feb 19, 2025
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Discover the historical context behind Russia’s war on Ukraine, exploring the complex dynamics that led to the conflict. Delve into Ukraine's evolving identity shaped by political turmoil and the legacy of the Soviet Union. Examine NATO's expansion and its significant impact on relations with Russia. Unpack the crucial decisions and pressures faced by Ukraine and its leadership before the war, revealing insights into the resilience of the Ukrainian spirit amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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Quick takeaways
The podcast emphasizes the historical context of NATO's expansion as a perceived threat to Russia, influencing Putin's motivations for the invasion.
It also highlights the evolution of Ukrainian nationalism and identity, which plays a crucial role in the country's resistance against foreign domination.
Deep dives
The Evolution of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
The podcast highlights the evolution of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which has persisted for nearly three years. Initially, there was a sense of optimism following Ukraine's early military successes; however, the situation has since deteriorated, with Russia regaining significant territory. This shift in dynamics emphasizes the complex phases the war has undergone and challenges the assumptions surrounding its duration and resolution. The discussion underscores the pressing need for the West to reassess its relationships with both Ukraine and Russia and navigate the path toward future stability.
Understanding Putin's Motivations
The podcast delves into Vladimir Putin's motivations for invading Ukraine, framing it as a response to perceived threats from NATO and Western influence. This perspective is rooted in a historical context where NATO's expansion has consistently been viewed as a direct challenge to Russian sovereignty and security. Additionally, the narrative explores how Putin's misconceptions about Ukraine's resolve and the nature of its resistance contributed to his miscalculations. By unpacking these motivations, a clearer understanding emerges of the geopolitical tensions that have fueled the conflict.
The Diverging Paths of Ukraine's Identity
The discussion contrasts Ukraine's national identity with Russian perceptions, highlighting the evolution of Ukrainian nationalism since independence. The post-Soviet era has seen Ukraine grapple with its identity, shaped by a blend of opposing historical narratives and linguistic divides. Despite these challenges, a robust national consciousness has developed among the populace, particularly among younger generations who are more inclined to view Ukraine as a distinct and sovereign nation. This evolving identity plays a critical role in shaping the Ukrainian response to the conflict and their determination to resist foreign domination.
The Global Implications of the Conflict
The podcast illustrates how the Russia-Ukraine conflict has broader implications for global politics, particularly in relation to NATO and Western security dynamics. The war has prompted a re-evaluation of traditional alliances and the balance of power in Europe. As the West reassesses its stance towards Russia, the podcast highlights the critical decisions facing NATO regarding intervention and support for Ukraine. Ultimately, the outcome of this conflict may redefine not only regional but also global geopolitical landscapes for years to come.
We are raiding the Guardian Long Read archives to bring you some classic pieces from years past, with new introductions from the authors. This week, from 2022: To understand the tragedy of this war, it is worth going back beyond the last few weeks and months, and even beyond Vladimir Putin. By Keith Gessen. Read by Andrew McGregor. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/longreadpod
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