Russia, particularly after 2010, has actively moved to dismantle the security order established after 1991, aiming to re-establish a sphere of influence in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. 2. Key Turning Points

Putin delivered a fiery speech criticizing the United States' "unipolar" world and NATO's aggressive expansion.

Following the overthrow of Ukraine’s pro-Russian President Yanukovych, Putin annexed Crimea, marking a decisive shift towards open conflict with the West.

The war has solidified into a long-lasting, deep confrontation, with Russia shifting its economy and focus eastward toward China, effectively reversing three centuries of Russian engagement with the West. 3. Putin’s Tactical Toolkit Putin vs the West: Missed opportunities to prevent war