The Russian invasion of Ukraine 2022: Discussions and Perceptions inside Academia

Abstract

Four issues are most actively discussed in Western literature: the aims of Russian foreign politics (occupy all of Ukraine); the legal basis for supporting Ukraine (what the West could do for Ukraine without worsening relations with Russia); the instruments for supporting Ukraine (sanctions are a key policy tool); and the scenarios for the future. The scenario for Russia means that Russia has become a global business pariah. The scenario for Ukraine is connected not only with the convincing response of the Ukrainian army to the Russian invasion, but also with changes in terms of language, national symbols, patriotic rhetoric, and self-esteem. The scenario for the USA and NATO includes revising and widening their military spending. The scenario for the EU means the emergence of a new concept of the EU’s foreign politics and transition from ‘strategic partnership’ to ‘strategic confrontation’ with Russia.