Russia's actions reflect a grand strategy orchestrated by President Vladimir Putin to protect Russian sovereignty and independence – a core tenet of Realpolitik, Darlington Ngoni Mahuku, International relations and political science expert at the Bindura University of Science Education, told Sputnik Africa.
Mahuku argued that the US and NATO's arming of Ukraine constitutes a proxy war, deliberately escalating the conflict and pushing Russia towards its perceived red lines.
He countered accusations of Russian international law violations by highlighting Ukraine's use of US weapons against Russian territory, urging a reassessment of the conflict. He stressed the Kremlin's focus on survival and security, warning of escalating nuclear proliferation risks.
"Ultimately, can one really trust a doctor whose wife is a coffin shop owner? The USA and NATO cannot be trusted," the expert noted.
The political scientist concluded that NATO and its allies, particularly the US, deliberately intended to dismantle post-Cold War arms control and non-proliferation agreements.