Consequences of an Invasion

The military invasion of Ukraine has not only met with broad internal and external resistance, but its far-reaching and exhausting consequences have also taken a toll on Russia itself. Contrary to the Kremlin’s initial expectation of a swift victory, the conflict has turned into a protracted war, bringing with it irreparable political, economic, and human costs. Amid crippling sanctions, international isolation, and growing domestic discontent, the war has revealed not strength, but a weakened and vulnerable face of power.

Just as a reckless attack on a beehive results in a storm of stings, invading the territory of a sovereign nation under the illusion of dominance yields no true gain—only the foundations of a deeper crisis. The signs of internal collapse are beginning to emerge beneath the surface of power; and perhaps this time, the pain is rising from within the bear’s own skin.