Part 7/10:
Despite these insights and concerns, the expansion proceeded. Many Eastern European countries, seeking security in the face of uncertainty and chaos following the Soviet Union's collapse, eagerly joined NATO, fully aware of their historical rivalries with Russia. This self-fulfilling prophecy sowed the seeds for resentment and hostility within Russia.
A Spiral of Hostility and the Emergence of Modern Tensions
As NATO expanded its reach, Russia began to feel cornered and humiliated, creating an environment ripe for leaders who would capitalize on growing nationalist sentiments. This in turn facilitated the rise of Vladimir Putin, whose tenure has been marked by strident anti-Western rhetoric and efforts to re-establish Russia's prominence on the world stage.