Two Years of Russia-Ukraine War: A Timeline of Conflict and Consequences

ANJAN SARMA

US President BIDEN Issued New 500 Sanctions Against Russia!

The Russia-Ukraine war, which began in 2014 with the annexation of Crimea, escalated significantly in February 2022 when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

This conflict has not only reshaped the geopolitical landscape of Eastern Europe but also had far-reaching implications for global politics, security, and economies.

As we mark two years since the intensification of hostilities, it is crucial to look back at the key events that have defined this period and consider the consequences that have unfolded as a result.

The seeds of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine were sown long before the outbreak of war. The relationship between the two nations had been strained for years, primarily due to historical, cultural, and geopolitical factors. Ukraine, once a part of the Soviet Union, gained independence in 1991 following the collapse of the USSR. However, Russia retained significant influence over its neighbor, particularly in economic and security matters.

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Tensions escalated in 2014 when Ukraine experienced a political crisis that culminated in the ousting of President Viktor Yanukovych, who was seen as pro-Russian. This event sparked protests in Ukraine’s predominantly Russian-speaking regions, particularly Crimea and eastern Ukraine. Amidst the turmoil, Russia annexed Crimea in March 2014, a move that was widely condemned by the international community but supported by many ethnic Russians in the region.

Following the annexation of Crimea, pro-Russian separatist movements emerged in eastern Ukraine, leading to the outbreak of armed conflict. The Ukrainian government accused Russia of providing military support to the separatists, including weapons, funding, and personnel. Russia denied these allegations but acknowledged support for ethnic Russians in Ukraine.

In April 2014, armed clashes erupted between Ukrainian government forces and pro-Russian separatists in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions of eastern Ukraine. The conflict quickly escalated into a full-scale war, characterized by intense fighting, artillery bombardments, and civilian casualties.

Amidst the escalating violence, efforts to negotiate a peaceful resolution to the conflict faltered. Diplomatic initiatives, including the Minsk agreements aimed at de-escalating the situation and implementing a ceasefire, failed to bring about a lasting peace.

The situation worsened in 2022 when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

On February 24, Russian military forces crossed the border from multiple directions, targeting key cities and strategic locations across Ukraine. The invasion caught the international community by surprise and triggered widespread condemnation.

Russian forces made rapid advances, reaching the outskirts of Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital, within days. The Ukrainian military and civilian population mounted a determined defense, engaging in fierce urban combat to repel the invading forces. The fighting resulted in significant casualties on both sides and widespread destruction of infrastructure.

As the war raged on, international efforts to mediate a ceasefire and negotiate a peace settlement intensified. However, the conflict remained deadlocked, with neither side willing to compromise on their core demands. The humanitarian situation in Ukraine deteriorated rapidly, with millions of civilians displaced, widespread shortages of food and medical supplies, and reports of human rights abuses and war crimes.

Throughout the conflict, Ukraine received support from the international community, including military assistance, economic aid, and diplomatic backing. The United States, European Union, and NATO countries condemned Russia’s actions and imposed sanctions on Moscow in response to its aggression.

Despite the challenges, Ukraine remained resilient, with its people displaying remarkable courage and determination in the face of adversity. Civilian volunteers joined the fight alongside the military, and communities rallied together to provide support to those affected by the war.

As the conflict entered its second year, efforts to find a resolution continued, but the path to peace remained elusive. The war had exacted a heavy toll on both Russia and Ukraine, leaving scars that would take years to heal. The international community continued to call for an end to the bloodshed and a return to diplomacy, but the road to peace remained uncertain.

In February 2024, as the war entered its third year, Ukraine continued to stand firm in the face of Russian aggression. The conflict had evolved into a protracted stalemate, with neither side willing to back down. The human cost of the war was staggering, with thousands dead, millions displaced, and entire communities shattered by violence.

As the world watched the ongoing tragedy unfold, the war between Russia and Ukraine served as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict and the urgent need for peace. Despite the challenges ahead, the people of Ukraine remained resilient, holding onto hope for a better future and the promise of peace.

The war between Russia and Ukraine would go down in history as one of the most significant conflicts of the 21st century, with far-reaching implications for regional stability and global geopolitics. As the world grappled with the aftermath of the war, the lessons learned from the conflict would shape international relations for years to come.

A Comprehensive Timeline: The Russia-Ukraine Conflict Unfolds

The Russia-Ukraine conflict, which began on February 24, 2022, has evolved into a protracted and devastating war, marking its second anniversary amidst continued violence and humanitarian crises. The timeline of events leading up to and during this conflict provides a detailed account of the escalating tensions and the profound impact on both nations.

Pre-Invasion Period:

December 1, 1991: Ukraine becomes independent following the fall of the Soviet Union, overwhelmingly supported by its people.

December 5, 1994: The Budapest Memorandum is signed, guaranteeing Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity by the United States, the United Kingdom, and Russia.

November – December 2004: The Orange Revolution overturns election results, leading to a victory for Viktor Yushchenko and a pro-western government.

April 3, 2008: Russian President Putin opposes Ukrainian NATO membership at a NATO summit, leading to NATO not offering Ukraine a Membership Action Plan (MAP).

Escalation and Conflict:

November 2013 to February 2014: Euromaidan protests lead to a shift in government orientation towards the European Union, prompting President Yanukovych to flee to Russia.

February to March 2014: Russia annexes Crimea, sparking international outrage and sanctions.

April 21, 2019: Volodymyr Zelenskyy is elected President of Ukraine, promising to end the war with Russia-backed separatists and fight corruption.

December 2021: Putin demands security guarantees, including Ukraine never being admitted to NATO, which is rejected by the Biden administration.

International Responses and Developments:

January 10, 2022: Formal talks between US and Russian officials on Russian military buildup near Ukraine’s border take place in Geneva, Switzerland, yielding no breakthrough.

January 13, 2022: Western allies warn about Russia’s unprovoked actions against Ukraine at an OSCE Permanent Council meeting in Vienna.

January 26, 2022: The Pentagon confirms Russia’s massing of over 100,000 troops on Ukraine’s border, raising concerns of an impending invasion.

February 2, 2022: The US announces the deployment of additional troops to Europe, showcasing commitment to NATO allies’ defense.

February 21, 2022: President Putin accuses Ukraine’s government of foreign influence and signs executive orders recognizing Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics as independent entities.

February 24, 2022: Russia launches a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, initiating missile and artillery attacks on major cities, including Kyiv.

Continued Conflict and Diplomatic Initiatives:

February 7, 2022: Heightened Military Activity and Diplomatic Initiatives

March-April 2022: Humanitarian Crises and International Response

May-June 2022: Continued Warfare and Strategic Developments

July-August 2022: Diplomatic Engagement and Military Operations

September-December 2022: Escalating Warfare and International Response

January-February 2023: Continued Conflict and Strategic Developments

March-April 2023: Humanitarian Crises and Military Operations

May-June 2023: Escalating Warfare and International Dynamics

July-August 2023: Strategic Developments and Military Engagements

September-December 2023: Evolving Warfare and International Dynamics

January-February 2024: Continued Conflict and Diplomatic Initiatives.

Second Year of Invasion:

February 7, 2024: Russia launches another large-scale attack on Ukrainian cities, resulting in civilian casualties and continued international condemnation.

February 24, 2024: Marks the second year of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, characterized by ongoing military stalemate, significant civilian casualties, and no end in sight to the conflict.

The Russia-Ukraine war has had profound consequences that extend beyond the immediate region:

• Humanitarian Crisis: Thousands of lives have been lost, and millions have been displaced, creating a refugee crisis in Europe. The war has also led to widespread destruction of homes, infrastructure, and cultural heritage sites.
• Economic Impact: The conflict has disrupted global supply chains, particularly in the energy and agricultural sectors, contributing to inflation and economic uncertainty worldwide.
• Geopolitical Shifts: The war has prompted a reevaluation of security policies in Europe, with NATO countries bolstering their defenses and some, like Finland and Sweden, seeking membership in the alliance.
• Military Aid and Sanctions: Western countries have provided significant military aid to Ukraine, while imposing severe sanctions on Russia in an attempt to weaken its economy and military capabilities.
• Nuclear Threat: The war has raised fears of a potential nuclear escalation, given Russia’s status as a nuclear power and its occasional veiled threats to use such weapons.
• Information Warfare: Both sides have engaged in a battle for public opinion, using traditional media and social networks to disseminate their narratives and counter misinformation.
• As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its third year, the international community remains deeply concerned about the ongoing violence and its broader implications. Despite numerous attempts at diplomacy and negotiation, a resolution to the conflict seems distant. The war has not only caused immense human suffering but also reshaped global geopolitics, with nations rethinking alliances and defense strategies. The economic repercussions have been felt worldwide, highlighting the interconnectedness of modern economies and the fragility of peace and stability.

The Russia-Ukraine war serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict in the 21st century. It underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing security challenges and the need for sustained efforts to support peace and rebuild affected communities. As the world watches and waits, the hope for a peaceful resolution remains, even as the reality of war continues to unfold on the ground.

Now, I am adding the statement of US President Joe Biden on the eve of Two Years Anniversary of Russia’s Invasion into Ukraine:

FEBRUARY 23, 2024; The White House

Statement from President Joe Biden Ahead of the Two-Year Anniversary of Russia’s Brutal Assault Against Ukraine

Two years ago tomorrow, shortly before dawn, Russian missiles began exploding near the capital city of Kyiv. Russian troops marched across the border into Ukraine. Vladimir Putin’s vicious onslaught against Ukraine had begun.

He believed that he could easily bend the will and break the resolve of a free people. That he could roll into a sovereign nation, and the world would roll over. That he could shake the foundations of security in Europe and beyond.

Two years later, we see even more vividly what we’ve known since day one: Putin miscalculated badly.

The brave people of Ukraine fight on, unbowed in their determination to defend their freedom and future. NATO is stronger, larger, and more united than ever. And the unprecedented 50-nation global coalition in support of Ukraine, led by the United States, remains committed to providing critical assistance to Ukraine and holding Russia accountable for its aggression.

The American people and people around the world understand that the stakes of this fight extend far beyond Ukraine. Ten years ago, Putin occupied Crimea, and created puppet regimes in Ukraine’s Luhansk and Donetsk regions.  Two years ago, he tried to wipe Ukraine off the map.  If Putin does not pay the price for his death and destruction, he will keep going. And the costs to the United States—along with our NATO Allies and partners in Europe and around the world—will rise.

Today, I am announcing more than 500 new sanctions against Russia for its ongoing war of conquest on Ukraine and for the death of Aleksey Navalny, who was a courageous anti-corruption activist and Putin’s fiercest opposition leader. These sanctions will target individuals connected to Navalny’s imprisonment as well as Russia’s financial sector, defense industrial base, procurement networks and sanctions evaders across multiple continents. They will ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression abroad and repression at home.

We are also imposing new export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for providing backdoor support for Russia’s war machine. We are taking action to further reduce Russia’s energy revenues. And I’ve directed my team to strengthen support for civil society, independent media, and those who fight for democracy around the world.

Two years into this war, the people of Ukraine continue to fight with tremendous courage. But they are running out of ammunition. Ukraine needs more supplies from the United States to hold the line against Russia’s relentless attacks, which are enabled by arms and ammunition from Iran and North Korea. That’s why the House of Representatives must pass the bipartisan national security supplemental bill, before it’s too late.

This bill provides urgent funding for Ukraine. It also invests in America’s own defense industrial base. It passed overwhelmingly in the Senate, and there is no question that, if the Speaker called a vote, it would pass quickly in the House. Congress knows that by supporting this bill, we can strengthen security in Europe, strengthen our security at home, and stand up to Putin. Opposing this bill only plays into his hands.

History is watching. The failure to support Ukraine at this critical moment will not be forgotten. Now is the time for us to stand strong with Ukraine and stand united with our Allies and partners. Now is the time to prove that the United States stands up for freedom and bows down to no one.

Images from different sources( Al Jazeera, Getty, AFP, and many more)

24-02-2024

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