The Audio Long Read From the archive: Was it inevitable? A short history of Russia’s war on Ukraine
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Feb 19, 2025 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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Post-Soviet Conflicts
- The Soviet Union dissolved with little violence, but conflicts arose at its edges.
- These conflicts involved separatist movements and Russian intervention in Moldova, Georgia, and Chechnya.
Ukraine's Unique Position
- Ukraine was unique among post-Soviet states due to its size, industrial capacity, and strong national identity.
- It also had a complex relationship with Russia due to intertwined economies, linguistic similarities, and shared history.
Intertwined Nations
- Russia and Ukraine's economies were deeply connected, and Ukraine's resources were vital to Russia's power.
- The two nations also shared close linguistic and cultural ties, with many Ukrainians being bilingual.