Conflict in Ukraine sparks unprecedented Western unity, leaves Russia isolated

When Russian leader Vladimir Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine in 2022, he bet on the West’s weakness - expecting Europe and the US to falter and abandon Ukraine. Instead, the conflict has united the West like never before, strengthening military alliances and isolating Russia on the global stage. What was meant to showcase Russian power has instead deepened Moscow’s isolation and reshaped the geopolitical landscape for years to come.

Viewing the West as fractured and weakened by past conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, and Syria, Putin believed a swift Russian victory would mark the decline of Western dominance and allow Russia to strengthen ties with China and other emerging powers.

But his gamble has failed. The Kremlin has pursued a dual strategy: vilifying the West domestically to rally support around Putin, while internationally seeking to fracture the Western alliance backing Ukraine. Moscow saw Donald Trump’s 2020 election as a chance to divide the West, yet hopes that Trump would unravel Western unity and hand Ukraine to Russia have proven unfounded. Trump distanced himself from Putin, calling him “crazy,” and lacked the ability to shift Western policy.

Russia’s brutal invasion has instead galvanized the West, prompting a united front to contain Moscow and turning Europe firmly against Russia. The consequences are far-reaching, with Europe rapidly strengthening its military capabilities, new NATO members joining, and enhanced transatlantic cooperation emerging. Russia’s only viable path back to influence is ending the war on Ukraine’s terms—something Putin refuses to do.

Historically intertwined with Europe, Russia has lost critical connections through this conflict. Once a major European power deeply involved in continental affairs, Russia’s 20th-century Soviet legacy maintained influence, but Putin’s aggressive actions have led to unprecedented estrangement. The war has also alienated even sympathetic figures like Trump, who failed to reverse Russia’s isolation.

As NATO meets to discuss ongoing challenges, the alliance remains committed to supporting Ukraine despite continued Russian aggression and external backing of Moscow from China, Iran, and North Korea. Though Russia endures hardship, its advance has stalled, and the West is prepared to move forward without it. Putin’s choices have cost Russia dearly, creating a rift that may take generations to heal.

By Naila Huseynova