“Compelling.… [E]rudite, objective and immensely readable.” —Ben Hall, Financial Times
The Russo-Ukrainian War represents Europe’s largest military conflict since World War II, making it a critical point of analysis in contemporary history. Written by Serhii Plokhy, a renowned historian known for his expertise on Ukraine and the Cold War, this authoritative text investigates the historical, political, and cultural underpinnings of a conflict that has shocked the world. Plokhy articulates why Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 surprised many, despite an array of warnings from Western leaders.
This book provides a comprehensive timeline, tracing the roots of the conflict back to its inception in 2014 when Russian forces seized Crimea. However, Plokhy argues that the history is even richer, extending back to the imperial collapse and post-Soviet turbulence of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Through meticulous research and engaging narrative, he presents the key moments that have defined the Ukrainian and Russian perspectives.
Notably, this analysis contrasts the diverging paths of Ukraine and Russia. While Ukraine has embraced a trajectory increasingly aligned with democratic Europe, Russia's actions reflect a commitment to authoritarianism and imperial nostalgia. Plokhy uncovers how this conflict underscores the tension between these two ideologies, suggesting that Ukraine is the most significant fault line in modern geopolitics.
Moreover, the author discusses the implications of nuclear proliferation, the fragmentation of the post–Cold War order, and a rising tide of populist nationalism, all of which create an increasingly volatile environment. Plokhy’s work is not just an account of military engagements; it’s a profound exploration of identity, culture, and the ongoing battle for Ukraine’s future in the greater European context.
Hence, readers are invited to grasp the full scope of the Russo-Ukrainian War through Plokhy’s lens, providing clarity amid the chaos of modern history.
