Q: What is the history of the Russia-Ukraine war?

A: A Comprehensive Overview of the Russia-Ukraine War

The Russia-Ukraine war, which escalated into a comprehensive invasion in 2022, stems from decades of political friction, cultural disparities, and geopolitical competition. The roots of this conflict are complex and intricately linked to centuries of intertwined and contested histories between the two nations. To comprehend the current crisis, it is essential to examine the significant historical events that have contributed to its development.

Historical Context: Centuries of Shared and Contested History

Ukraine and Russia share a common origin with Kievan Rus, a formidable medieval state that emerged in the 9th century. Centered in contemporary Kyiv, Kievan Rus is recognized as a cultural progenitor to both modern Russians and Ukrainians. Over the centuries, this region fragmented, with Ukraine eventually falling under the dominion of various empires, including the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and ultimately the Russian Empire.

In the 20th century, following a brief period of independence post-World War I, Ukraine became a Soviet Republic in 1922 as part of the newly established USSR. Under Soviet governance, Ukraine endured significant hardships, particularly during the Holodomor, a man-made famine in the early 1930s that resulted in the deaths of millions of Ukrainians and continues to resonate as a deeply painful chapter in Ukrainian history.

1991: Ukrainian Independence and Escalating Tensions

The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 saw Ukraine declare its independence, emerging as a sovereign nation. While many Ukrainians heralded this independence, Russia grappled with the loss of what it perceived as a crucial part of its historical and strategic sphere of influence.

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Ukraine experienced internal discord between pro-European and pro-Russian political factions. Concurrently, Russia began to view Ukraine’s western alignment—especially its aspirations to join NATO and the European Union—as a direct threat to its security and regional influence.

2014: Euromaidan, the Annexation of Crimea, and the Donbas War

The situation deteriorated in late 2013, when Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, under pressure from Moscow, opted against a trade agreement with the EU in favor of strengthening ties with Russia. This decision ignited mass protests known as Euromaidan, ultimately leading to Yanukovych’s exile in early 2014.

In retaliation, Russia annexed Crimea in March 2014, justifying the move by claiming the need to protect Russian-speaking citizens and its strategic interests, particularly the Black Sea Fleet stationed in Sevastopol. The annexation faced widespread international condemnation as a breach of international law.

Simultaneously, pro-Russian separatists in the eastern Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk declared independence, aided by Russian military forces and armaments. The Ukrainian government initiated a military campaign to reclaim control, igniting a conflict that would persist for years and claim over 13,000 lives before 2022.

2022: A Full-Scale Invasion and Global Shock

On February 24, 2022, Russia commenced a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, launching assaults from multiple fronts, including Belarus in the north and Crimea in the south. Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted that the operation aimed to “demilitarize and de-Nazify” Ukraine—a rationale largely dismissed by the international community as propaganda.

This invasion marked the most significant military conflict in Europe since World War II, resulting in widespread destruction:

Major cities such as Kyiv, Mariupol, Kharkiv, and Bakhmut became theaters of war.

Millions of Ukrainians were displaced, leading to a substantial refugee crisis.

Western nations responded with extensive sanctions against Russia and provided billions in military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine.

Contrary to initial expectations of a swift Russian victory, Ukraine mounted a robust defense. Ukrainian forces, supported by Western-supplied weaponry and public backing, successfully defended Kyiv and launched counteroffensives in various regions.

Global Impact of the Conflict

The war has engendered profound global implications:

It has disrupted global food and energy markets, as both Russia and Ukraine are significant exporters of grain, oil, and gas.

It has transformed NATO, reinforcing its unity and prompting countries such as Finland and Sweden to pursue membership.

It has heightened tensions between Russia and the West, intensifying fears of a new Cold War or broader geopolitical confrontation.

Current Situation (as of mid-2025)

As of 2025, the war remains ongoing. While the frontlines have evolved, both factions continue to sustain significant casualties, with no comprehensive peace agreement in sight. Ukraine persists in demanding the return of all occupied territories, including Crimea, whereas Russia maintains its claim over the regions it has annexed.

Diplomatic endeavors, spearheaded by international mediators, have thus far failed to yield a lasting resolution. The conflict has reinforced national identities on both sides and deepened long-standing grievances.

Conclusion: A War of History and Identity

The Russia-Ukraine war transcends a mere territorial dispute; it represents a profound struggle over national identity, geopolitical alignment, and historical legacy. For Ukraine, it is a battle for sovereignty and independence. For Russia, it is about influence, security, and the preservation of its vision of a historical empire.

This war, driven by centuries of intricate relations and recent political choices, will continue to influence not only Eastern Europe but also the global order for years to come.