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What to Believe in Putin’s ‘Imagined Community’
Russia’s approach to its invasion of Ukraine is rooted in a prescriptive version of its history and identity based on an “Imagined Community.”
Ukraine’s efforts in peace talks are proving futile because of Russia’s view of its own past, the atrocities it has already committed, and its unrealistic expectations for negotiations.
- Allyson Edwards
- New Lines Institute
Russian decision-making during these negotiations will be heavily influenced by President Vladimir Putin’s concept of this war, especially his rhetoric around the supposed threat of Nazism and its ties to mythmaking around World War II – which Russia officially calls the “Great Patriotic War.”
Russia’s view of history through this lens will likely delay the…