Putin

[JBR]

As far as I know in the last few years Putin dealt a lot with Russian history and wrote a number of essays. He never approved the decay of the former Soviet Union and it is said that he dreams of a "Russian Empire" . In his speeches to his people at the beginning of the Ukrainian war he formulated precisely his ideas. So, in broad strokes we know what he thinks.                                                             

Yes, I can understand his hopes and intentions.  After all, isn't that what Britain did from the 18th century onward.  In many ways, I think that the British Empire benefited us, but it also benefited the people of the countries we conquered.  We mustn't relate this to slavery: Britain was the first, or one of the first, to abolish it.  In fact, slavery still continues in parts of the Third World.

Having said that, I am sure that Putin is attempting the impossible for two reasons:
- he is being clearly unsuccessful in taking Ukraine, as the Ukrainians are showing their serious determination not to give in to his expansion;
- although Ukraine is not a NATO member, it is being supported financially and with the provision of weapons by NATO members.

[klondike]

I think what it boils down to when comparing empires is that those in the British empire gained as well as giving. That was so with the Roman empire close to two millennia ago too. It is not the case with the Soviet empire.

[JBR]

I think what it boils down to when comparing empires is that those in the British empire gained as well as giving. That was so with the Roman empire close to two millennia ago too. It is not the case with the Soviet empire.

Exactly.