UKRAINE'S REJECTION OF RUSSIAN AGGRESSION: REGIONAL SECURITY IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

This study examines the Russia-Ukraine crisis through the lens of the regional security complex
theory. The authors argue that the national securities of Russia and Ukraine are intertwined, and the policies
of external powers have a significant impact on regional actors' concepts and behavior. The study finds that
Russia's interest is to prevent NATO and the West from expanding into Eastern Europe, where a significant
amount of Russia's gas is transported through Ukraine and exported to other European countries. The authors
suggest that the West and NATO should refrain from convincing Eastern European nations to join the military
organization and from engaging in political and economic activities in the region. The study proposes that
sanctions should be targeted at deterring an offender rather than given sentimentally. The authors reaffirm
that regional security is socially constructed rather than objective and that non-state actors play a significant
role in shaping regional security. The study provides insights into the implications of the Russia-Ukraine
crisis and regional security on global politics and emphasizes the importance of a nuanced approach in dealing
with regional security challenges.