The article discusses the reasons behind Russia's intense interest in Ukraine, which has led to a significant amount of tension between Russia and the West. The main points are:
1. **NATO's expansion**: Russia is wary of NATO's expansion into Eastern Europe, particularly Ukraine, which it sees as a threat to its national security. Ukraine's potential membership in NATO could lead to the deployment of missiles and other military assets near Russia's border.
2. **Geography**: Ukraine's strategic location in Eastern Europe makes it an important country for Russia. Ukraine shares borders with four NATO member countries, making it a crucial buffer zone for Russia.
3. **Natural gas pipeline**: Ukraine is home to a significant pipeline that transports natural gas from Russia to Europe. Russia is concerned that Ukraine's potential membership in NATO could lead to the pipeline being disrupted or even seized.
4. **Historical ties**: Russia and Ukraine have strong historical and cultural ties, with many Russians considering Ukraine to be an integral part of their country. This emotional attachment is a significant factor in Russia's actions in Ukraine.
5. **Putin's personal conviction**: Russian President Vladimir Putin has a strong personal conviction that Ukraine should not join NATO and that Russia should maintain its influence in the region.
The article concludes that these factors have contributed to the current tensions between Russia and the West over Ukraine, with Russia seeking to maintain its influence in the region and prevent Ukraine from joining NATO.
1. Ukraine has become a big flash point between Russia and NATO.
2. There is a lot of tension in Ukraine regarding Ukraine.
3. NATO was formed in 1969 with few members like Italy, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, Britain, and others.
4. Over time, more countries were added to NATO, including Germany, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Romania.
5. Ukraine is not a member of NATO, but there have been repeated discussions since 2008 about whether it should be.
6. Russia does not want Ukraine to become a member of NATO.
7. Ukraine is a major exporter and has a significant pipeline for natural gas.
8. The pipeline passes through Ukraine and is a major route for natural gas supply to Europe.
9. Russia has threatened to stop the supply of gas if Ukraine becomes a member of NATO.
10. Ukraine is the second-largest country in Europe after Russia.
11. Ukraine shares borders with four NATO member countries: Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania.
12. Russia has a historical and emotional connection with Ukraine.
13. Ukraine was part of the Soviet Union, and many Russians believe that Ukraine is an integral part of Russia.
14. Putin has been in power for almost 22 years and has tried to increase Russia's influence and confidence in the region.
15. Western countries have imposed international sanctions on Russia for its actions in Ukraine.
16. Putin has his own personal conviction and believes that Ukraine should not become a member of NATO.
17. Putin added Crimea to Russia in 2014, which was seen as a historic victory.