Vladimir Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began one year ago, under the pretext of a looming threat from NATO on Russia’s border. That was a mere excuse, however, and not what Putin really feared most, as Michael McFaul and Robert Person wrote at the time. Since then, the war has taken unexpected turns and inflicted a heavy toll on Russia in addition to the mass carnage in Ukraine. But Ukrainians — the leadership, soldiers, and civilians — are fighting valiantly and finding creative means of resistance. Read Michael McFaul’s latest reflections on the war and other recent Journal of Democracy coverage.
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For twenty years, the Russian autocrat enjoyed a string of good fortune in coming to power and cementing his rule. He had raised Russia’s standing in the world. Then he invaded Ukraine.
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How the World Stands Up to Putin
His military didn’t just fail. Ordinary Ukrainians, Russians, and people across the globe are creatively and nonviolently protesting Putin’s war on Ukraine, and they are making a difference.
By Srdja Popovic and Steve Parks
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Armies and Autocrats: Why Putin’s Military Failed
When Vladimir Putin launched a massive invasion of Ukraine, he expected an easy victory. Instead, the world has witnessed an object lesson in how a corrupt Russian regime crippled its own military power.
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How Zelensky Has Changed Ukraine
Volodymyr Zelensky is far more than a brave wartime leader. He began changing the tenor and direction of Ukrainian politics long before the people made him their president.
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The Russian leader declared war on his country’s independent journalists. But Russian media outsmarted him by taking their operations overseas. They are now reaching more people than ever before.
By Roman Badanin
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Why Ukrainians Are Rallying Around Democracy
The share of Ukrainians who endorse democracy as the best form of government has risen fast in short order, standing now at more than three-quarters. New data reveal a surprising explanation behind this remarkable shift.
By Olga Onuch