When Ukraine gained independence, Russia’s understanding was that it would accept the emergence of democracy on its doorstep in exchange for assurances regarding security. Specifically, the agreement entailed that NATO would not expand beyond Germany. In the early 1990s and again in 2000, Russia sought to join NATO, only to be rebuffed. NATO, in turn, has often relied on portraying Russia as a threat to justify its military expenditures and equipment buildup. The conflict in Ukraine was sparked in large part by NATO’s eastward expansion, especially its support for Ukraine’s NATO aspirations and the subsequent military aid provided to Kyiv. To understand this complex geopolitical issue more fully, it is important to engage with historical sources rather than be swayed by biased narratives.
When Ukraine gained independence, Russia’s understanding was that it would accept the emergence of democracy on its doorstep in exchange for assurances regarding security. Specifically, the agreement entailed that NATO would not expand beyond Germany. In the early 1990s and again in 2000, Russia sought to join NATO, only to be rebuffed. NATO, in turn, has often relied on portraying Russia as a threat to justify its military expenditures and equipment buildup. The conflict in Ukraine was sparked in large part by NATO’s eastward expansion, especially its support for Ukraine’s NATO aspirations and the subsequent military aid provided to Kyiv. To understand this complex geopolitical issue more fully, it is important to engage with historical sources rather than be swayed by biased narratives.
If I were afraid of NATO, the last thing I would do is invade Ukraine. Putin isn’t very good at this.
Its called a strategic win if russia would have allowed NATO in Ukraine and war breaks out the front lines will be with russian territory.
Why did they annex Crimea? Don’t want to next to NATO countries? Why not move deeper into your own country to distance yourself from them?
Would you want a naval base from your enemy at your door step?