Many scholars, including those at Harvard Kennedy School, are taking a critical look at the Russian Vs Ukraine conflict. They are examining the role of cyberattacks and misinformation in the situation. One of them, Julia Minson, is an immigrant with Russian roots who is now an associate professor of public policy at Harvard University.

According to reports, the Russians have increased their missile attacks on civilian infrastructure, but these have limited military effects. The West is worried that the Russian military may overwhelm the 2.55,000 Ukrainian armed forces. This will also damage the Russian economy and the image of Putin at home. In 2014, mass demonstrations in Ukraine drove Kremlin-friendly President Viktor Yanukovych from power. He abandoned an agreement with the European Union in favour of closer relations with Moscow.

The conflict in Ukraine has severely strained US-Russia relations and has increased the risk of wider conflict in Europe. The conflict will likely intensify tensions between Russia and neighboring NATO member countries, and will almost certainly involve the United States, due to the alliance’s security commitments. It will also affect future cooperation on critical issues like counterterrorism and cybersecurity.

The current war has also strengthened Ukrainian unity and helped unite its citizens of all regions and linguistic backgrounds. At the same time, it has reinforced the divide between Russian and Ukrainian identity. As a result, it is unlikely that Russia will succeed in its attempts to exert lasting control over Ukraine.