Ukraine Invasion: What Putin Wanted vs. What He Got

When Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, his objectives were clear: swiftly capture Kyiv, overthrow the pro-Western government, and reassert Russian influence over Ukraine. However, more than three years later, while Russia controls approximately a fifth of Ukrainian territory, the conflict remains unresolved, with no immediate end in sight.

Putin justified the invasion by declaring the need to “demilitarize and denazify” Ukraine, a narrative that has been widely criticized as a distortion of history. He also expressed concerns over NATO’s eastward expansion, viewing it as a threat to Russia’s security. These claims have been met with skepticism and condemnation from the international community.

Despite recent diplomatic efforts, including direct talks between Russia and Ukraine, the first since the early weeks of the war, progress remains limited. Notably, President Putin has not participated in these discussions, casting doubt on their potential to bring about a lasting resolution.