The dramatic events in Ukraine, as well as Vladimir Putin's violent behavior in the international arena over the past two decades, raise questions among decision - makers and Western observers about Russia's ultimate goals, and the president's ability to understand the implications of his aggressive policies on his country and the world.
Russia's followers look with great concern at its massive military armaments process and the transition to a more militant policy - both within the post-Soviet space and towards NATO countries. , Like Georgia and Ukraine, and even try to bring Russia back to the status of a superpower that influences the world agenda.
As part of these efforts, the Russians returned to a permanent presence in the Middle East and the northern border of Israel, and renewed their air and sea tours around the world.
They are also involved in several international hotspots of conflict and instability.
The deterioration in relations between Kiev and Moscow comes against the background of the "Orange Revolution", and the Ukrainians' aspirations to link their destiny with the European Union and the NATO alliance, despite their previous commitments to Russia. Also for the spread of NATO to Eastern Europe and the installation of warning systems and missile batteries in this area.
Russian Army tanks, Photo: AFP
Ukraine's aspirations and the spread of NATO to the east are deeply troubling to Putin, in the face of the direct threat to Russia's national security, which is partly based on a security belt on the part of protectorates bordering Central Europe. USA and China.
It is doubtful, however, whether he will be able to realize his territorial aspirations and regain all those territories and countries in Eastern Europe that were once part of the Soviet Empire and now belong to NATO. To halt in the long run its striving for the status of a superpower, and also to reduce its ability to maintain imperial assets in Eastern Europe.
Russia's growing military power, Putin's vast experience in the diplomatic arena and his arrogant nature, along with the United States' considerable weakness - have encouraged him to take great risks in Ukraine and the conflict with the West. The war in Ukraine is being waged gradually, and it seems that the Russians are trying to minimize the harm to the civilian population.
The author is a lecturer in the Department of General History, Bar-Ilan University
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