A geopolitical analysis of Russian aggression on Ukraine

Abstract

This dissertation explores the geopolitical implications of Russia’s aggression toward Ukraine, emphasising its impact on international security and power dynamics. It investigates the evolution of Russian interventionist strategies, tracing historical precedents from the Chechen Wars, the 2008 Russo-Georgian War and the annexation of Crimea, to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Through a qualitative methodology, the study analyses Russia’s geopolitical aspirations, rooted in great-power identity and resistance to Western influence. It examines military tactics, economic coercion, and diplomatic manoeuvres used by Russia, highlighting its strategic objectives of territorial dominance, energy control, and countering NATO expansion. Key case studies provide a comparative analysis of Russia’s actions, illustrating recurring patterns of authoritarian consolidation, military assertiveness, and manipulation of international norms. The dissertation also explores the global responses, including sanctions and international military aid, assessing their effectiveness and consequences. By applying realist and liberal theories, the research contextualises Russia’s actions within broader international relations frameworks. The findings reveal a complex interplay of historical legacies, strategic ambitions, and international reactions, offering critical insights into Eastern Europe’s shifting geopolitical landscape and the wider implications for global security and international order. This work contributes to the ongoing discourse on managing great-power aggression in a multipolar world.