The starting point of Putin’s doctrine lies in a certain view of the world, which presupposes the existence of a natural civilisational community, with Russia at the centre.

The first non-Chechen leader of the Caucasian militants marks the culmination of a trend shifting the weight of fighting in the Caucasus from Chechnya to Dagestan.

The EU’s acceleration of its activities towards its eastern neighbours has been brought about by Russia’s aggressive policy towards the countries of the region.

Russian economic sanctions pose an enormous challenge to Ukraine, whose economy has been in recession over the past two years.

One month after the overthrow of Viktor Yanukovych’s government, Ukraine’s situation is still very difficult.

The poor financial results of the energy companies have been caused by a decline in energy demand in the EU.

Opinion polls from the last several days indicate that a clear majority of Russian society supports the Kremlin’s actions taken towards Ukraine.

Russia’s strategic goal remains to impose political and systemic solutions that would guarantee Russia control over the Ukrainian state.

Everything indicates that Russia has incorrectly assessed the atmosphere in eastern and southern Ukraine, neglecting their citizens’ attachment to the state.

Crimea’s absorption by Russia changes the current balance of forces in the Black Sea.