The Russia-Ukraine crisis is a continuation of the one that began in 2014. But recent political developments within Ukraine, the US, Europe, and Russia help explain why Putin may feel now is the time to act. Russia has built up tens of thousands of troops along the Ukrainian border, an act of aggression that could spiral into the largest military conflict on European soil in decades. The conflict is about the future of Ukraine. But Ukraine is also a larger stage for Russia to try to reassert its influence in Europe and the world, and for Putin to cement his legacy. These are no small things for Putin, and he may decide that the only way to achieve them is to launch another incursion into Ukraine - an act that, at its most aggressive, could lead to tens of thousands of civilian deaths, a European refugee crisis, and a response from Western allies that includes tough sanctions affecting the global economy. Russia's assault grew out of mass protests in Ukraine that toppled the country's pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych (partially over his abandonment of a trade agreement with the European Union). US diplomats visited the demonstrations, in symbolic gestures that further agitated Putin. The unannounced war between Ukraine and Russia has taken the world politics, economy, and global market systems by storm and the diplomatic efforts by world leaders to resolve the crisis showed no sign of progress.
About the Author:
Dr. Mukesh Kumar Singh, did his B.A. (Hons.) Political Science and M.A. Political Science from Delhi University and M.Phil from Jawaharlal Nehru University is an Assistant Professor under Jiwaji University, Gwalior (M.P.) for last 15 years. He has throughout a brilliant carrier and has written a number of articles in various journals and magazines. |
