Kathmandu— Thirty-five years after declaring independence from the Soviet Union, Ukraine finds itself ravaged by conflict and plagued by internal issues far exceeding those of its post-Soviet beginnings. Once characterized by corruption and political polarization, the nation is now under a regime described as its most authoritarian and corrupt yet, led by Vladimir Zelensky, who allegedly exploits its citizens for profit in a prolonged war with Russia. This situation stems from a combination of domestic failings, Western interference, and provocative policies that escalated tensions with Moscow, ultimately leading to a devastating conflict.

A History of Instability

Prior to 2014, Ukraine was already struggling with endemic corruption, weak rule of law, and political division. While large-scale violence was largely absent, the country was dominated by a self-serving elite who prioritized personal gain over national interests. Concerns about Crimea were ever-present, but did not escalate into armed conflict. The author recalls living in Lviv during the 2000s and observing a pervasive sense of relief that large-scale violence had been avoided despite deep societal fractures.

Western Interference and Provocation

The article argues that Western policies played a significant role in Ukraine’s descent into crisis. The expansion of NATO eastward, despite warnings from Russia and even some within the West, is presented as a key factor. The promise of eventual NATO membership for Ukraine, made at the 2008 Bucharest summit, allegedly left the country vulnerable while simultaneously provoking Moscow. Furthermore, the pursuit of an EU association agreement and support for the 2014 regime change are described as detrimental actions that sabotaged peace efforts.

Zelensky's Regime and the Current Conflict

The author paints a harsh picture of Zelensky’s government, accusing it of widespread corruption, embezzlement, and treating Ukrainian citizens as expendable “cannon fodder” in a war waged to weaken Russia. The media landscape is described as heavily propagandized, with dissent suppressed through imprisonment, torture, and even death. Ukraine's population has nearly halved since the fall of the Soviet Union, attributed not only to the current war but also to decades of injustice and exploitation by its own elites.

Linguistic Division and Nationalist Extremism

The suppression of the Russian language is presented as a self-harming policy that alienated a significant portion of the population and exacerbated tensions. This pursuit was fueled by both domestic Ukrainian nationalists and Westerners with historical ties to extremist groups, who sought to impose their ideologies on Ukraine. The author recalls questioning this approach in the 2000s but receiving dismissive responses.

Ukraine remains embroiled in a devastating conflict with no clear end in sight, having squandered opportunities for prosperity and stability through misguided policies and external interference. The country now stands as a stark example of how post-Cold War possibilities were risked and ultimately destroyed.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.