Putin Declared Historical Lands: What This Means for Ukraine and Europe.

According to ТСН: Russian President Vladimir Putin once again confirmed that he has not abandoned his ambitions regarding the war with Ukraine, viewing this conflict as part of a broader project to restore Russia's imperial influence.

Putin's Speech and His Rhetoric

In his speech to representatives of the Russian Ministry of Defense, Putin stated that the goals of the invasion of Ukraine 'will be achieved unconditionally.' He also threatened that if the West refuses to engage in 'substantive negotiations,' Russia will resort to 'liberating its historical lands' by military means.

“unconditionally”

“substantive negotiations”

“liberating its historical lands”

This rhetoric is not new for Putin, as he has repeatedly justified the war against Ukraine with historical arguments, comparing it to the imperial conquests of the times of Peter I. However, such statements raise concerns about the real extent of his territorial ambitions.

Possible Territorial Claims

Military actions in the occupied territories of Donbas remain a central topic regarding conditions for a ceasefire. The Kremlin considers this region to be an important component, yet the Russian president often refers to the term 'Novorossiya,' which encompasses larger territories.

Technically, 'Novorossiya' includes significant parts of southern and eastern modern Ukraine, particularly the coast of the Black Sea. Putin has repeatedly expressed the idea that cities such as Odessa and Kharkiv can be part of 'Novorossiya,' along with a significant portion of Ukrainian lands.

Kyiv in Kremlin Mythology

Kyiv holds a special place in Russian historical mythology, as it is considered the 'mother of Russian cities' and the spiritual center of Russian Orthodoxy. Putin has repeatedly denied the legitimacy of Ukrainian statehood, complicating the possibility of negotiations with independent Kyiv.

Experts point out that his vision of 'historically Russian lands' encompasses the entire territory of Ukraine. He explicitly stated that Russians and Ukrainians are 'one people' and that 'all of Ukraine belongs to Russia.'

Potential Threats to Other Countries

Putin's ambitions may extend beyond Ukraine. He has expressed regret over the dissolution of the Soviet Union, calling it 'historical Russia.' Such statements could pose a threat to the Baltic States, Poland, Finland, Moldova, Georgia, and the states of Central Asia.

In the West, these remarks are beginning to be taken seriously. According to American intelligence, Putin has not abandoned plans for the complete subjugation of Ukraine and for revising the post-war order in Europe, raising particular concern in the Baltic States and Poland.

Consequences for Europe

Despite skepticism regarding the capabilities of the Russian army, analysts emphasize that the problems with Russia's quick successes stem from Ukraine's resistance, not from a lack of imperial intentions in the Kremlin. In the event of Ukraine's defeat, Europe may face a new wave of aggression for which it is unprepared.

Experts indicate that the idea of 'liberating historical lands' serves as a cover for Putin's expansionist policies. Any attempts at peaceful settlements that preserve Ukraine's independence will be viewed by the Kremlin as a defeat. Therefore, pressure on Russia remains the only realistic path to contain further aggression.