Impact of US Russia Policy on Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine

Abstract

One year has passed since Russia invaded Ukraine. Significant incongruity is apparent in Russia’s actions, such as changing the purpose of the war and attempting to gain public support by positioning the war as a fight against the West. Russia’s actions appear to be opportunistic. However, considering Russia’s actions after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, it appears that Russia heightened its anti-Western awareness in response to the actions of the West and escalated its responses to the countries of the former Soviet Union. Therefore, this article focuses on US moves toward the countries of the former Soviet Union after the dissolution of the Soviet Union and examines what provoked Russia. It then analyzes whether Russia’s actions are reactive or proactive and provides indications for understanding future developments in Russia.