The violent conflict between Russia and Ukraine began with Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014, and its later invasion in 2022 has bolstered tensions and conflict.

Actors:

• Russia: The main aggressor in this conflict led by Putin, sees itself as restoring Russia’s territory, has conducted an annexation and full-scale invasion of Ukraine

• Ukraine: The ex-Soviet state led by Zelensky is fighting for its sovereignty and independence, whilst asking for $Bs of aid from the USA and NATO

• USA: The USA has been Ukraine’s main donor, having given over $75B, opposes Russia as threat to its ideals

• NATO: Member-states have unilaterally provided assistance to Ukraine, but the organisation has not yet intervened as the Ukraine is not a member of the alliance

• EU: The EU has imposed many sanction packages on Russia and Russians to reduce its financial ability to fund the war

Timeline:

• March 2014 - Russia formally annexes the Crimean peninsula following a disputed local referendum

• April 2014 - Pro-Russian separatists in Donetsk and Luhansk regions declare independence, leading to an armed conflict with the Ukrainian military

• February 2015 - The Minsk II agreement is signed, aiming to cease hostilities

• February 2022 - Russia launches a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, marking a dramatic escalation of the conflict

• June 2023 - Ukraine launches a counteroffensive aiming to recapture its territory, but fails to achieve a breakthrough

• October 2024 - North Korea allegedly sends troops to fight against Ukraine

Summary: