Summary
The conflict in Ukraine has lasted over four years, and Russian leadership believes their actions have been justified. Russian leaders see their campaign as a way to stop NATO's eastward expansion and have reacted against Western hostility, which has bolstered Russian security forces' power.
Key Facts
- The war in Ukraine started in February 2022 and is now in its fifth year.
- Russian leaders, including Vladimir Putin, believe their military actions in Ukraine are justified and successful.
- Russia's motives include preventing NATO from expanding closer to its borders.
- The conflict is seen by Russia as a proxy war with NATO.
- Security-focused Russian elites have gained more power due to the conflict.
- Ukraine's change in policy towards Russia occurred under President Zelenskyy after pressure from domestic and Western sources.
- Russia aimed to create a strong threat to Ukraine's leadership and push for changes similar to the 2015 Minsk agreements.
- Russia managed to establish a land corridor to Crimea during the conflict.
