Russo-Ukraine War: An Introduction to an Unfinished Project

The Russo-Ukraine War marks a critical juncture in post-Cold War geopolitics, characterised by a nexus of crises that challenge international alliances and geopolitical stabilities. The protracted Russo–Ukraine conflict, combined with rising national populism in the West, underscores the weaknesses of established and prevailing Western norms and institutions. Against this backdrop, it is argued that the Russo-Ukraine War showcases the complexities of power dynamics, strategic interests, and east-west geopolitical rivalries. This chapter analyses the multifaceted layers of the conflict, exploring its military, political, diplomatic, and economic dimensions through the lens of Realist international relations theory. By examining the motivations, actions, and interactions of key actors, such as Russia, Ukraine, NATO, and the EU, this chapter provides a comprehensive understanding of the origins, dynamics, and implications of the Russo-Ukraine War. Through a detailed analysis and contextualisation of broader geopolitical trends, this chapter offers in-depth insights into the complexities of the Russo-Ukraine War.