The conflict between Ukraine and Russia traces back to 2014 when Ukraine's pro-Moscow president, Viktor Yanukovych, was ousted by a revolution that pushed Ukraine towards the West and European integration. Russia, which saw Ukraine as a critical part of its former Soviet sphere of influence, annexed Crimea from Ukraine in March 2014, citing the protection of Russian speakers and strategic interests. This move led to international condemnation and sanctions against Russia.
The following months saw the rise of pro-Russian separatist groups in eastern Ukraine, who declared two "People's Republics" in Donetsk and Luhansk. Fighting then broke out between Ukrainian government forces and the separatist militias, with evidence of Russian military involvement supporting the rebels.
Despite numerous ceasefires and international attempts to broker a peace deal, the conflict has continued for more than seven years, with both sides accusing the other of breaking agreements. The war has claimed at least 13,000 lives and displaced millions.
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