Russia's War Against Ukraine
Alexander J. Motyl: Putin’s Russia as a state sponsor of terror in Ukraine
Putin’s Russia has become what the US Department of State calls a “state sponsor of terrorism.”
Here’s how: After the Anschluss of Crimea, Putin had three options. He could invade all or parts of Ukraine, or hope that pro-Russian demonstrators would flood Ukraine’s streets and assert their “people power.” The first option has not been pursued, perhaps because it’s too risky. The second failed, as the vast majority of Ukraine’s southeastern citizens have remained indifferent or opposed to unification with Russia.
That left Putin with one remaining option: terrorism.