Part 14/18:
The Kremlin fears that economic prosperity and democratic reforms in Ukraine—mirroring Western systems—could undermine Russia's power and legitimacy. Historically rooted in a hierarchical, autocratic governance structure built on violence and suppression of dissent, Russia views its current system as its identity. The prospect of Ukraine gaining strength and prosperity independent of Moscow’s control represents a direct threat to its political survival.
Simultaneously, Russia's military posture is motivated by a sense that the window to suppress Ukraine’s Western ambitions might close if the conflict drags on—hence, the Russian leadership’s insistence on a resolution by force if necessary.