Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a war of conquest. Conquest of territory that the Kremlin feels entitled to; of people, who according to Putin belong to the “Russian World”; and of resources, from machinery and grain looted by the Russian state to washing machines, electronics devices and personal items pilfered by Russian soldiers. But above all, the war is about Russia gaining control over Ukrainian identity and history.
In 2014, just 1 out of 6 Americans could point Ukraine out on a map. In 2022, on the eve of Russia’s attack, only 34% of Americans could tell where Ukraine was. A year later, most people know about the country, and small Ukrainian towns such as Bucha or Bakhmut have become household names throughout the West.
Sadly, the cause of this recognition is destruction and suffering, but the longer-term effects of global awareness will ensure that people the world over recognize and appreciate Ukraine as an independent state, not an appendage of Russia.
