Ukraine, Russia and the West: When Value Promotion Met Hard Power

The book argues that Russia and the West were playing different games, with Russia focused on hard power and the West on value promotion, leading to a lack of common ground and understanding.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 284 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The West was caught off guard by Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which came as a surprise due to several factors. Firstly, Russia had become increasingly assertive in its foreign policy objectives in recent years, seeking to reassert its influence and expand its sphere of influence in Europe and beyond. However, the West had largely viewed Russia as a declining power and had not taken its threats seriously. Secondly, there had been a perception in the West that Russia was primarily interested in economic development and trade, rather than in pursuing territorial expansion or military aggression. Thirdly, the West had underestimated the strength and determination of the Ukrainian government and people in their resistance to Russian aggression.

Furthermore, the West had been influenced by its own values and beliefs, which prioritized the promotion of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. These values were not shared by all countries, particularly those in the former Soviet Union, where Russia had sought to reassert its influence. The West had also been influenced by its desire to maintain stability and prevent the spread of conflict in Europe.

In conclusion, Russia's all-out war against Ukraine came as a surprise to the West due to a combination of factors, including Russia's assertive foreign policy, the West's underestimation of Russia's intentions, the strength and determination of the Ukrainian government and people, and the West's own values and beliefs. The conflict has had significant implications for international relations and has highlighted the need for greater cooperation and understanding between the West and Russia.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032396293