Since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Russia and Ukraine maintained a complex relationship that, despite tensions, was largely cooperative in the early years. Ukraine, having gained independence, sought to establish its own identity while still maintaining economic and political ties with Russia. However, over the years, differing political ideologies and Ukraine’s growing inclination toward Western alliances strained their relationship.

The situation escalated dramatically in 2014 when Ukraine underwent a revolution that ousted its pro-Russian president, Viktor Yanukovych. Russia, perceiving this as a Western-backed coup, swiftly responded by annexing Crimea, a strategic peninsula with a significant Russian-speaking population. This move was widely condemned by the international community, leading to sanctions against Russia and increased hostilities between the two nations. Following the annexation, conflict erupted in eastern Ukraine, where Russian-backed separatists engaged in prolonged battles with Ukrainian forces, further deteriorating relations.

By 2022, tensions reached a breaking point when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, marking the beginning of a devastating war. The invasion led to massive destruction, a humanitarian crisis, and global economic disruptions. Ukraine, backed by Western aid and military support, resisted fiercely, turning the conflict into a prolonged and attritional war.

Now, in 2025, the war has persisted for over three years with no definitive resolution in sight. Both sides have suffered heavy casualties, and diplomatic efforts have repeatedly failed to bring about lasting peace. The ongoing war has reshaped global politics, intensified economic struggles, and left millions displaced, making it one of the most significant conflicts of the 21st century