The Politics of Unreality: Ukraine and Nuclear Risk: A Conversation with Timothy Snyder (#301)

The border between Russia and Ukraine was legally agreed upon in 1991. Historically, Crimea had a state lasting six centuries, then part of the Crimean Khanate before Russian annexation in the 18th century. Crimean Tatars were forcibly deported by Stalin in 1944, and Crimea was transferred to the Ukrainian SSR in 1956 for administrative reasons.

No, Timothy Snyder states that US policy at the time was to preserve the Soviet Union. It was the Russian Federation itself, under its leadership, that brought about the Soviet Union's end. The idea of an American plot is a falsehood used to frame narratives.

Putin's actions are driven by a belief in Russia's 'special destiny' and 'civilization,' tinged with fascism. He defines Russia by choosing an enemy, with Ukraine serving as that enemy, rather than by genuine Russian interests. His goal seems to be leaving a legacy as a unifier of 'Russian lands,' akin to historical tsars.

No, Russia is not afraid of NATO. They have moved many troops from NATO borders to fight in Ukraine, and statements about NATO being a threat are largely a 'guilt-making factory.' The actual goal is to control Ukraine, not to defend against a NATO invasion.

Fascism is defined as a political ideology where will and imagination, not rationality, form the basis of politics. It emphasizes strength, endless conflict, and defines itself by choosing an enemy, which then gives meaning to one's own identity.

Russian propaganda admits Russia's own problems but claims countries like Britain and the US are just as bad, focusing on Western flaws. This nihilistic framing suggests no system is inherently better, eroding faith in democracy and leaving people susceptible to manipulation.

Some critics, like David Sachs, argue that continued support for Ukraine and advocating for Russia's total defeat risks World War III. They suggest that NATO expansion was a contributing factor and that prioritizing avoiding nuclear war means seeking negotiated settlements, even if it appears to appease Russia.

Snyder criticized Kanye West's anti-Semitic remarks as 'hateful' and based on a 'Protocols of the Elders of Zion' level confabulation about Jewish control. He differentiated this from criticism of religious ideas, stating Kanye targeted Jews as a race.

Following the Soviet Union's dissolution in 1991, the borders of the constituent republics became sovereign borders. Ukraine held a referendum where 90% voted for independence, with majorities in every region supporting it, solidifying its statehood over the following decades.