Russia’s Aggression against Ukraine: a Clash of Two Visions of the International Community and International Law

Russia's aggression against Ukraine represents the culmination of a clash between two visions of the international community and international law. The first is the vision of the West, formulated especially under the influence of the United States. This vision is reflected in the current situation of the community, which is based on American hegemony, and in the state of international law, which has emerged especially after the end of the Cold War. The second vision is that of Russia and China, which has been systematically constructed since the end of the 20th century, supported at least in some aspects by other states belonging to or aspiring to the BRICS or the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The article undertakes an analysis from the perspective of the response of the West and, more broadly, the international community, to Russian aggression. It examines demands for change in the sphere of power within the community and relations between its members, as well as changes in the creation, interpretation and operation of international law. The consequences of the clash of these visions, which is of a systemic, civilisational nature with regard to both the community and international law, are also assessed.