BLUF
Russia’s attempt to restore its former influence has accelerated Ukraine’s emergence as a significant European power, highlighting how middle powers increasingly shape international affairs in a changing global order. Russia now arguably a middle power.Learning Outcomes
- Strategic Thinking: The article examines how shifts in power distribution can produce unexpected outcomes, showing how states can gain influence despite facing significant challenges.
- Geopolitical Awareness: It explains the changing balance between major and middle powers, helping readers understand broader international trends affecting Europe and the Indo-Pacific.
- Critical Analysis: The author challenges common assumptions about the conflict and encourages readers to assess competing explanations using political, economic and historical evidence.
