NATO and the EU raised membership expectations without ever intending to follow through. As a result, Ukraine became vulnerable to Russian revanchism.
EU
Putin Should Pay One More Visit to Kiev
Everyone I’ve talked to resents Putin’s two visits to campaign for Yanukovych but goes to great lengths to explain how warm their feelings for Russia are.
Russia Isolated in Its Postimperial Phantasm
From a strategic point of view, Vladimir Putin’s attack on Ukraine has thrown back Russia to its weakest position since World War II.
Putin’s Colossal Intelligence Failure
The main difference between Ukraine and Russia is that Ukrainians have become citizens of their own country, while Russians remain subjects of their ruler.
After Arrest, Kremlin Critic Navalny Calls On Supporters To ‘Take To The Streets’
“Don’t be afraid. Take to the streets,” Navalny said. “Don’t do it for me, do it for yourselves and your future.”
For Poland, Promises of Riches Awaits as Eastern Border’s Destitute Look West
When Poland flings open its western border to the EU, the back door to the east will slam shut, leaving Belarus and Ukraine in a geopolitical gray zone.
Facing The Biggest Challenge Ever To His Power, Lukashenko Looks To Russia For Help
Alexander Lukashenko is spinning a narrative of a beleaguered underdog facing hostile forces that only Vladimir Putin has the power to stop.
The Stakes For Ukraine Are High In Monday’s Summit Between Putin And Zelenskiy
“The strategic goal of Russia is a weak, chaotic Ukraine. If you accept that as their goal, you can understand the logic of Russian behavior.”
After Trump Call, Ukraine’s Zelenskiy Gambles On Russia Peace Push Without U.S. Help
“We don’t think of Trump as an ally,” says Alyona Getmanchuk. “At best, he could be a referee; at worst, he could create more and more obstacles.”
In Russia, A Dairy Owner Dreams Of Delivering Cheese To Vladimir Putin
“Russians are like a spring,” said Oleg Sirota. “The more you push them down, the stronger they bounce back up.”