To End Imperialistic Aspirations Russia Must be Divided

Abstract

This opinion article argues that dividing Russia may be the only way to end its imperialistic aspirations. The author traces the drive for power to territorialism, the fight for survival and the struggle over resources, and recalls past imperial conquests. The author contends that militaristic offensives have become rare, that power is now usually gained through economic means, and that since World War II most nations with internationally recognised borders feel secure, although this arrangement can be broken by leaders willing to use force, particularly a superpower that relies on fear of a global clash to limit international retaliation, as with Russia's take-over of Crimea, Abkhazia, South Ossetia and Transnistria. The article rejects the justifications given for the Russian invasion of Ukraine, noting that Russia, the largest country in the world, was never under real threat except during the German offensive in World War II, and criticises Vladimir Putin's warning of possible nuclear retaliation, weak domestic opposition and state propaganda. Arguing that excess political strength lies with army generals and Communist “old timers”, the author concludes that tyranny might be avoided by dividing Russia into several geographical entities, perhaps according to ethnic origin, and building a modern economy, and that only the removal of Putin and his followers by Russian citizens may open the way to such change.

Abstract prepared by the editorial office from the full text of the article; the authors did not supply one.