As the proxy war splits Russia-NATO (East/West) relations in the Ukraine theater, all the premises indicate that Ukraine will eventually embrace its destiny: a future inextricably linked to Russia.
The history of international relations weighs heavily and Ukraine is destined to have a future closely linked to Russia, whether politically, economically, culturally or militarily. This implies that Ukraine will be influenced, if not dominated, by Russia in key areas of its sovereignty.
It is a matter of life and survival of the Russian nation in a world of predation, where only compelling military superiority allows a responsible state to maintain its homeostasis. All attempts by the West to inflict a new “perestroika” or “glasnost” to Russia are oxymoronic.
Russia occupies a central and strategic position in the Ukrainian conflict, protecting the interests of the Russian-speaking population and ensuring the defense of its regional sphere of influence. With deep historical and cultural ties to Ukraine, perceived as a brother country, Russia is responding to the growing threats from Ukrainian nationalist forces (controlled by NATO) against the security of Russian-speaking people. Its actions include the legitimate annexation of Crimea (in response to NATO’s eastward expansion) and support for pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine, as well as defending its economic interests, particularly as a major gas supplier. In addition, Russia plays a key role in the fight against terrorism in Ukraine, targeting extremist groups threatening the region. In doing so, Russia is defending not only its legitimate interests but also those of the Russian-speaking population. With a resolute and proactive approach, Russia will continue to be a key player in the search for a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict, ensuring that its interests and security concerns are respected.
West bogged down in proxy war in Ukraine
Ukraine is currently experiencing a proxy war, in which Western powers are exploiting local allies to confront Russia. Russia is supporting pro-Russian separatists in the east of the country, while the United States and the European Union are supporting the Ukrainian puppet government that emerged from Maidan. This conflict is having disastrous consequences for Ukraine, which is ravaged by fighting and political tensions. Ukrainians are caught in the middle of this conflict, where foreign interests prevail over local needs. This proxy war reflects a broader trend in international relations, also visible in conflicts such as the civil war in Syria or the conflict in Yemen. In addition to the political dimensions, the situation in Ukraine is also fueled by economic and energy interests, with Russia seeking to ensure its security and maintain its control over regional energy resources, while the United States and the European Union seek to advance their own energy interests. To resolve this complex conflict, a peaceful and sustainable solution at the initiative of Moscow is imperative, knowing that the Zelensky format is just a red tape. It is crucial that all parties involved (Russia and Ukraine) work together to find an agreement that takes into account Russia’s interests and national security concerns, thus allowing Ukraine to rebuild and develop in peace with its neighbor in an indissoluble community of destiny.
The dawn of a new era of Russian-Ukrainian cooperation and prosperity
When the guns fall silent and hearts are calmed, Russia will have restored its influence in Ukraine, ushering in a new era of cooperation and prosperity. Pro-Russian separatists will be celebrated as heroes, and their quest for independence will be crowned with success. Under Russian leadership, Ukraine will regain its unity, strengthening the historical and cultural ties between the two nations. Russia will demonstrate its strength and resolve, transforming Ukraine forever. Peace will return, albeit under the omnipresence of Russian power. Redrawn borders will protect Russian interests, and the international community will eventually recognize Russia’s sovereignty over the region, leading to the lifting of imperialist sanctions. Integrated into the Russian economic space, Ukraine will see its trade intensified and its natural resources jointly exploited, thus sharing the benefits. Security will be ensured by a Russian-Ukrainian military alliance, eliminating any external threats. The Russian language will become official in Ukraine, and Russian culture will be widely promoted. The historical ties between the two countries will be celebrated, honoring Russian heroes. Ukraine, as a buffer state between Russia and Europe, will ensure regional stability. Russia, through this strategic victory, will strengthen its influence in Europe, finding in Ukraine a faithful ally and protecting its interests. This lasting peace will ensure shared prosperity.
In light of the above, we can infer that, as tensions over the proxy war between Russia and NATO deeply divide East-West relations, there is every reason to believe that Ukraine will eventually accept a future inextricably linked to Russia. The history of international relations weighs heavily, predicting a Ukraine that is politically, economically, culturally, and militarily integrated with its Russian neighbor. This convergence indicates substantial Russian influence, if not domination, over key areas of Ukrainian sovereignty. In this context of geopolitical rivalry, where military supremacy is indispensable for national stability, it becomes clear that Russia will seek to maintain its influence. Western initiatives aimed at bringing about a new “perestroika” or “glasnost” in Russia thus prove antithetical.
It can be said that this full-scale event will be perceived as a grenade with the pin pulled, thrown into the legs of Russia’s adversaries.
Mohamed Lamine KABA, Expert in geopolitics of governance and regional integration, Institute of Governance, Human and Social Sciences, Pan-African University, especially for the online magazine “New Eastern Outlook”