Unfinished Empire

Russian Imperialism in Ukraine and the Near Abroad

Author: Donnacha Ó Beacháin

An essential primer for the reader looking to understand the consequences of the war with Ukraine for Russia's regional relationships with bordering countries and Russia’s place in the world beyond the binary East–West tensions.

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For centuries, Russian imperialism has shaped the fate of its neighbours, from the tsarist conquests to Soviet domination and today’s relentless aggression. This book exposes the Kremlin’s enduring ambition to control its periphery, dismantling the myths used to justify its actions – from claims of shared history to the weaponization of security and culture. It reveals how Russia has sought to subordinate neighbouring states, and how these nations have resisted, asserting their sovereignty in defiance of Moscow’s pressure.

In this incisive and compelling analysis of Russia’s enduring imperial mindset, Donnacha Ó Beacháin sheds critical light on how history, politics and power continue to collide in Ukraine and beyond, and why breaking the cycle of domination is vital for global security. It is essential reading for grasping the complexities of the current geopolitical crisis.

Critic Reviews

This book offers a searing indictment of Russian imperialism and a profound exploration of Ukraine’s struggle for sovereignty. A timely and necessary contribution to understanding the forces shaping Europe today.

-- Aleksander Kwaśniewski, President of Poland, 1995–2005

Russian imperialism is at the root of the bloodiest armed conflict of the twenty-first century so far. It is only through understanding the basis of such conflicts that we can prevent them from repeating in the future. A vivid, insightful, and extremely helpful study.

-- General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Ambassador of Ukraine to the UK, Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine’s Armed Forces, 2021–24

A gripping and incisive portrait of Russia and its brutal attack on Ukraine. Ó Beacháin roots Moscow’s imperial ambitions in history and gives a compelling account of its neighbours, seen then and now as colonies. A super guide.

-- Luke Harding, author of Invasion: Russia’s Bloody War and Ukraine’s Fight for Survival