Why did Russia launch a full-scale invasion?

For decades, Russia has considered Ukraine its sphere of influence and prepared its full scale invasion. Failing to dictate Ukraine what to do and witnessing successful development of the country, Russian authorities resorted to unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine to undermine its statehood and establish a pro-Russian regime. 

Vladimir Putin announced the launch of a “special military operation” in the Donbas on 24 February at 5 a.m. He threatened the West with a nuclear strike and told the Ukrainian army to disarm and go home. Putin declared “demilitarization”, “denazification” of Ukraine and “liberation of Donbas” as the main goals of the “special operation”.

However, each of these reasons is completely fictional, and hides Russia’s real desire to destroy Ukraine as an independent pro-European country.

The Russian war against Ukraine also has a very imperialistic nature, as it aimed at conquering the territories, resources and people. 

You can learn more in our historical explainer — here.