Putin’s Aims in Ukraine — Jack Matlock

We often hear the allegation that Russian President Vladimir Putin aspires to “re-create the USSR.” That is an absurd allegation. He has been quoted as saying that “anyone who does not regret the breakup of the Soviet Union has no heart; anyone who would wish to recreate it has no brain.” But even if that should be his dream, it would be, practically speaking, totally impossible to bring about.

So what is his aim–in general and specifically in regard to Ukraine? Richard Sakwa has published an insightful article in The Spectator on January 26, 2022. His conclusion is that “to protect its own security, Russia desires a neutral, friendly, multilingual Ukraine.” That is also my understanding of the current Russian desire....

Jack Matlock.com
Putin’s Aims in Ukraine
Jack Matlock, former U.S. ambassador to the Soviet Union

http://jackmatlock.com/2022/01/putins-aims-in-ukraine/