The Russian invasion of Ukraine poses a fundamental challenge to the post-Cold War order, which has kept Europe relatively stable and at peace for the past 25 years. With his policy of aggressive nationalism and hegemonic aspirations, Russian President Vladimir Putin openly challenges the principles of sovereignty, self-determination and democracy on which this order was built.
Putin's world view — and indeed that of many members of Russia's elite — is premised on a perceived need to restore Russia to its former position of influence and greatness in the "near abroad" and — by extension — in the world.
Russia and the West have competing narratives to explain Putin's action. Putin and those seeking to "understand" him now often argue that the United States has violated a deal made with Russia about not expanding NATO.