THE RUSSIA-UKRAINE CONFLICT: A PERSPECTIVE FROM INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND CANADIAN FOREIGN POLICY

THE RUSSIA-UKRAINE CONFLICT: A PERSPECTIVE FROM INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND CANADIAN FOREIGN POLICY

This paper explores the Russia-Ukraine conflict within the theoretical framework of international relations and Canadian foreign policy; it relies on a qualitative analysis, focusing on the geopolitical, historical, and economic dimensions. It begins by contextualizing the conflict against the background of NATO historical expansion into Eastern Europe following the Cold War, underscoring how this expansion has contributed to heightened tensions with Russia. The paper examines Russia's strategic concerns regarding NATO's enlargement and its implications for regional security dynamics, emphasizing efforts to reassert Russia's influence amidst perceived Western advance. Furthermore, the paper delves into Canada's response to the conflict, underlining its robust support for Ukraine through diplomatic, economic, and military aid initiatives. Canada's multifaceted assistance is analyzed, including its significant financial contributions and humanitarian aid efforts, which reflects a commitment to supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Moreover, the paper explores the economic repercussions of the conflict on Canada, particularly in terms of commodity prices and trade impacts, despite relatively limited direct trade ties with Russia.