Full Answer Section

• State Interests:

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine can be seen as an attempt to protect its security interests and prevent NATO expansion into its sphere of influence.

• Power Dynamics: The balance of power between Russia and the Western alliance has been a key factor in the conflict, with both sides seeking to maintain or gain strategic advantage.
• Security Dilemmas: The fear of being attacked by a rival power can lead to a security dilemma, where defensive actions by one state can be perceived as aggressive by others. This dynamic has played a role in the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine.

While other theories like feminism, postcolonialism, and liberalism can offer valuable insights into specific aspects of the conflict, realism provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the underlying power dynamics and geopolitical motivations driving the war in Ukraine. It highlights the importance of national interests, security concerns, and the competitive nature of international relations.