Unleashing Russia’s Nationalism: An In-depth Look into the Ukraine War

BY: Ali Omar Forozish

Ukraine seeks West integration, while Russia considers it part of its sphere of influence in the conflict.

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Russian nationalism fuels the Ukraine conflict, driven by Putin's decades-long promotion of nationalism and recent aggression.

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Russia's annexation of Crimea and support for pro-Russian rebels sparked a deadly conflict, violating Ukraine's sovereignty.

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Russian nationalism dates back to the 18th century and has been fueled by writers and leaders, including Emperor Alexander I.

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Russian writers glorified their culture as superior to others and lauded Russian martyrs, ingraining national pride in Russians.

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Russian Romanticism glorified culture, language, and Orthodoxy. The Empire's expansion through Central Asia and the Caucasus fueled nationalism.

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Russia's nationalism driven by history of invasions, attacks and desire for a strong leader due to a sense of being wronged.

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Russians crave a strong leader who can protect them from threats, making them tolerate authoritarian rulers and support Putin.

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