Link to article: https://apnews.com/article/europe-russia-ukraine-vladimir-putin-moscow-cd558699728e9ae935eaadf940efeb18
On November 30, President of Russia Vladimir Putin admonished NATO forces, telling them not to deploy forces into Ukraine, saying it would cross a “red line.” When Putin was asked about the western world’s concerns Russia would invade Ukraine, Putin stated he was just as worried about NATO’s presence in Russia’s neighbor, Ukraine. Putin cited recent drills where NATO planes flew as close as “20 kilometers” from Russia’s border. Additionally, Russian officials vehemently deny any intention to invade Ukraine, saying claims of a Russian buildup are used to disguise NATO’s increase of military presence. Russia annexed the Crimean Peninsula of Ukraine in 2014; earlier in the year, Russian forces built up around the Ukrainian border, sparking fear. However, they retreated away from the border in April. During a recent interview, Putin said he believes the west and Russia should negotiate to ensure all parties maintain their national interests while also maintaining peace. President Biden’s press secretary Jen Psaki acknowledged the concerns arising with Russia, reporting the Biden Administration will monitor the situation.
The resurgence of the Russian-Ukrainian military buildup shows the continuing pressure Russia is placing on the western world. The additional context provided by the recent Belarus-Poland border crisis with the alleged backing of the Russian government further emphasizes the mounting tensions. It is also worth noting that Putin asserted he wasn’t concerned about China’s military buildup, saying that a good relationship between the two countries was vital for stability in the international community. Following the saying “the enemy of my enemy is my friend,” China and Russia are likely on the same side in the Ukrainian annexation issue. The cooperation between Russia and China could mean an issue with trade could arise should the United States upset China or Russia, which hampers the ability of the United States or NATO to handle Russia’s expanding military presence on the Ukrainian border. Additionally, Russia’s alleged attempts to back a coup in Ukraine increases the tumultuousness of the situation, and could be used to support both Russia and NATO’s arguments.
Putin’s proposal to start negotiations between the western world and Russia is a great example of a Liberal perspective that we have discussed in class. Putin mentioned he believes all parties should start diplomatic discussions to ensure parties involved maintain what is in their national interest. Although a seemingly optimistic comment from Putin, the prospect is realistic, as a more pugnacious approach would result in fierce conflict. Finally, the main reason NATO is not more assertive in the situation again boils down to money. NATO countries such as the U.S. trade extensively with China, and interfering with Russia would detrimentally affect the United States’ primary national interest of economic prosperity.