Putin's Imperial Ambitions Have Crashed: Why Former USSR Republics Do Not Want to Return to Moscow.

According to inkorr.com: Vladimir Putin dreams of restoring the Russian Empire, but most former Soviet republics do not wish to return under Moscow's control. Ten countries that are already EU and NATO members actively oppose Russian influence. Even in those regions where pro-Russian sentiments exist, there is no desire to prefer the Kremlin.

Seeking Balance

Historian Alexander Motyl believes that even countries under Moscow's influence strive to balance independence and relations with Russia. Central Asian countries are trying to maintain equilibrium between Russia and China to avoid returning under Moscow's control.

'Receiving Russian gas or annoying Brussels - that's one thing. But giving up sovereignty and submitting to Russian dominance - that's completely different,' notes Motyl.

Loss of Ukraine for Russia

The loss of Ukraine has been Putin's biggest failure. Today, Ukraine is united in its desire to preserve its identity and independence, rejecting Russian influence. Former Ukrainian territory remains outside the reach of the Russian Empire's achievements.

War in Ukraine and Its Consequences

The conflict in Ukraine has severely damaged Russia, weakening its armed forces and economy. The country has become dependent on China and North Korea, turning into 'Burkina Faso with a bomb.' Russia's imperial ambitions seem to remain, but their realization looks increasingly impossible.

The conflict of interest between Russia and former Soviet republics, as well as Ukraine's desire to preserve its independence and identity, indicate complex relations in the region. Russia's imperial aspirations clash with the resistance of these countries, which do not wish to submit to Moscow, complicating Russia's control over former Soviet territories.