The annexation of Crimea in 2014 marked a turning point in Putin's foreign policy from "summary" of Putin's People by Catherine Belton
The events of 2014 would prove to be a pivotal moment in Putin's foreign policy strategy. The annexation of Crimea sent shockwaves through the international community, as Russia brazenly flouted international norms and borders in pursuit of its geopolitical ambitions. This bold move demonstrated Putin's willingness to challenge the status quo and assert Russia's power on the world stage. The annexation of Crimea was not just a territorial land grab; it was a statement of intent. Putin was signaling to the West that Russia would no longer be content to play by the rules set by the United States and its allies. By seizing Crimea, Putin showed that he was willing to use military force to achieve his objectives, regardless of the consequences. This aggressive stance marked a departure from Putin's earlier approach to foreign policy, which had been characterized by a more cautious and pragmatic approach. In the aftermath of the annexation, Putin's government faced widespread condemnation and sanctions from the international community. However, Putin remained defiant, insisting that Russia had acted in self-defense and in the interests of its people. The annexation of Crimea also had broader implications for Russia's relations with the West. The move strained relations with the EU and the US, leading to a new era of confrontation and mistrust. Putin's actions in Crimea were seen as a direct challenge to the post-Cold War order, with Russia positioning itself as a rival to Western liberal democracy and values. In the years since the annexation, Putin has continued to pursue an assertive and confrontational foreign policy agenda. From military interventions in Syria to election interference in Western democracies, Putin has shown that he is willing to use all means at his disposal to advance Russia's interests. The annexation of Crimea may have been a turning point in Putin's foreign policy, but it was just the beginning of a new era of Russian aggression and defiance on the world stage.
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