Part 5/15:
Dr. Petro traces the roots of Ukraine's internal conflicts to the 1917-1921 period, when Ukraine briefly declared independence. Two main movements emerged: the Ukrainian National Republic centered in Kyiv with ambitions of a federated Ukraine, and the Western Ukrainian National Republic, which sought full independence. These two entities, despite a brief attempt at unification, were often at odds, with Western Ukrainians wishing for separate recognition and Eastern Ukrainians more aligned with Russian identity.