The geopolitical behavior of Russia is always an interesting topic for discussion, especially considering the recent events. It is one of the most populated countries in the world, and it is located in Northern Eurasia (see map. 1).
It can be seen from the history that the country has shown outstanding defensive capabilities against the threats to the homeland. The actions of Russia on the territory of Ukraine can be discussed from the point of view of the Heartland theory. The Eastern European country is situated at a crucial geopolitical spot, and Crimea is especially important because of the connection to the Black Sea. This location could be strategically vital to Russia if there is a war or any other conflict, and the country has viewed the intention of Ukraine to join NATO as a tremendous threat because military power would be reduced.
The country did not want to let such thing happen, and it desires to take the control of the territories that would let Russia become the most influential country in the world. Crimea also played a huge role during the World War II and was essential for the victory. It views Europe as a significant threat, and it can be said that the actions of Russia are intentional, and they are important to isolate the country from the West (Keller par. 2). Currently, there is tension between Russia and NATO, and it has been worsened by the fact that leaders of the organization have voiced their opinion about the situation in Ukraine in 2014 (NATO par. 7).
They have stated that the country has broken the international laws and has to stop such actions (NATO par. 7). Many believe that it has negatively impacted the economy of Russia, but it values geopolitical advantages much more than relations with European countries. It is also interesting that Europe was rather slow when reacting to the situation in Ukraine, and intervention is necessary because the conflict is still ongoing.
The country is known for its geography because it provides a range of political and strategic advantages. The defensive power is extraordinary thanks to the climate and landforms. Russian minorities have always had a huge influence because of their irredentistic views, and it is proven by the current situation in Ukraine. Some expected the development of similar disagreements in the Baltic States (Borger and Harding par. 3). It is especially interesting that the preparations for the operation that took place in Crimea were planned way before the referendum (Boyle par. 6). However, it is not likely because these minorities do not have such a huge presence in these countries, and the geopolitical location is also crucial.
Russia’s geography was paramount during the Operation Barbarossa. The movement possibilities of Nazi army were limited once they entered the territory of Russia (Kirchubel 46). The Ural Mountains were overwhelmingly hard to cross, and they play the role of natural defense. The climate of Russia was unusual, and the Nazi army was not prepared for the weather and Taiga, and they had enormous problems with supplies. Also, Russian forces were able to utilize the knowledge about geographical advantages and used them to the fullest during the World War II. However, it is imperative to say that the differences in sizes of armies were dramatic, and it should not be disregarded. Overall, the country is currently a powerful force because of geopolitical location, and it is developing at a fast pace.
Works Cited
Borger, Julian, and Luke Harding. Baltic States Wary as Russia Takes More Strident Tone with Neighbours. 2014. Web.
Boyle, Catherine. Russia Vs. EU: Where Next in Propaganda War? 2015. Web.
Keller, Bill. Russia Vs. Europe. 2013. Web.
Kirchubel, Robert. Operation Barbarossa, Oxford, United Kingdom: Osprey Publishing, 2013. Print.
NATO. NATO’S Relations with Russia. n d. Web.
Russia [map]. 2015. Scale undetermined; using “Google My Maps”. Web.