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In 'Putin's Revenge,' Lucian Kim traces the lead-up to Russia's invasion of Ukraine
Apr 30, 2025
Lucian Kim, former NPR Moscow correspondent and senior Ukraine analyst, dives deep into the tangled history surrounding Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He discusses pivotal events like the 2004 Orange Revolution and George W. Bush's NATO ambitions, illuminating how these moments escalated tensions. Kim reflects on Putin's complex relationship with Ukraine and the significance of Crimea's annexation. He also addresses the dramatic shift in Ukrainian sentiment towards NATO post-2014, offering insights into the motivations that drive this ongoing conflict.
11:32
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Quick takeaways
- Lucian Kim underscores that the historical context of Russian imperialism and key events like the Orange Revolution were pivotal in shaping the invasion's motivations.
- The podcast highlights the impact of George W. Bush's NATO initiatives and the resulting rift in U.S.-Russia relations as a crucial factor leading to conflict.
Deep dives
The Roots of the Conflict
The invasion of Ukraine by Russia can be traced back to deep-seated issues rooted in Russian imperialism, exemplified by the historical significance of Ukraine as a key player. The 2004 Orange Revolution illustrated the Ukrainian desire to break free from Russian influence, where the population successfully overturned a rigged election favoring Moscow-backed Viktor Yanukovych. This event was pivotal for Vladimir Putin, as it reinforced his belief that the West, particularly the U.S., was attempting to undermine Russian authority in former Soviet territories. Thus, the confluence of these historical dynamics established a backdrop against which the later military aggression was launched.
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