Russia is trying to establish a new power base in Ukraine.
The United States and Russia have been at odds over Ukraine for years, but the situation has become even more complicated in recent months. The Russian government is trying to establish a new power base in Ukraine, but it’s not as simple as just taking over the country. Here’s why Russia wants Ukraine and what it means for the future of the region.
What is happening in Ukraine?
Ukraine has been on edge since March 2019, when former President Petro Poroshenko was forced out of office by Parliament after he failed to improve relations with Russia. His replacement, Volodymyr Zelensky, was elected with 73% of the vote in April 2020. However, Zelensky has had a difficult time fulfilling his campaign promises of improving relations with Russia and bringing peace to eastern Ukraine.
Why does Russia want control over Ukraine?
“Russia needs a buffer zone between itself and NATO.”
Russia sees itself as being surrounded by enemies. Its neighbors include China and North Korea to its east, Japan to its west, and NATO countries such as Poland to its north. In order for Russia to feel secure about its borders it needs a buffer zone between itself and NATO. In addition, if there were no longer any threat from NATO countries bordering it then it would be free to take action against other countries without worrying about retaliation from them.
