Why is Russia-Ukraine War happening?
Russia vs Ukraine · Since 2022-02-24
📋What is happening?
Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, beginning with missile strikes on Kyiv and a simultaneous ground assault from Belarus, Russia, and Crimea. Ukrainian forces successfully repelled the initial assault on Kyiv. The war has since settled into a grinding frontline battle across eastern and southern Ukraine, with Russia occupying roughly 18% of Ukrainian territory. This is Europe's largest armed conflict since World War II.
👥Who is fighting?
Russia is the aggressor: President Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion, citing NATO expansion, alleged 'Nazification' of Ukraine, and protection of Russian-speaking populations as justifications. Ukraine, led by President Volodymyr Zelensky, is defending its sovereign territory. Ukraine is supported by NATO member states (particularly the US, UK, Germany, Poland) with weapons, intelligence, and financial aid. Russia receives ammunition from North Korea and drones from Iran.
❓Why did it start?
The war's roots include: (1) Ukraine's 2013-14 Euromaidan revolution that ousted pro-Russian president Yanukovych; (2) Russia's annexation of Crimea and start of Donbas conflict in 2014; (3) Ukraine's stated desire to join NATO and the EU, which Russia views as an existential threat; (4) Putin's stated belief that Russians and Ukrainians are 'one people' and Ukraine is not a legitimate state; (5) broader Russian imperial revisionism aimed at restoring Russian sphere of influence in post-Soviet space.
📰What's the latest?
As of April 2026, frontline fighting continues across Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts. Russia has captured Avdiivka (February 2024) and is pressing toward Chasiv Yar. Ukraine conducts long-range drone strikes on Russian oil infrastructure and military targets. Peace negotiations remain stalled. US military aid packages continue, while European nations increase defense spending.
📍Where is it happening?
The conflict spans eastern and southern Ukraine. Key battlegrounds: Donetsk Oblast (Bakhmut, Avdiivka, Chasiv Yar), Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Kherson Oblast (largely under Russian occupation), and Kharkiv Oblast. Russia also holds Crimea (annexed 2014) and parts of Luhansk Oblast. The frontline stretches approximately 1,000km.