Putin has lost the empire: why former republics do not want to return to Moscow

Vladimir Putin dreams of restoring the Russian Empire, but many former Soviet republics do not want to return under Moscow's rule. Ten countries that have already joined the EU and NATO refuse to fall under Russian influence. Even where pro-Russian forces are present, there is no desire to return to the Kremlin's power.

Historian Alexander Motyl believes that even countries within Moscow's sphere of influence are seeking a balance between independence and relations with Russia. Central Asian countries are trying to maintain a balance between Russia and China to avoid falling back under Moscow's control.

'Receiving Russian gas or irritating Brussels is one thing. But giving up sovereignty and submitting to Russian domination is quite another,' notes Motyl.

The loss of Ukraine is a major failure for Russia. Today, Ukraine is united in its desire to preserve its identity and independence, rejecting Russian influence. Former Ukrainian territory remains beyond the reach of the Russian Empire.

The war in Ukraine has created serious problems for Russia, weakening its armed forces and economy. The country has become dependent on China and North Korea, turning into 'Burkina Faso with a bomb'. Russia's imperial dreams may still be alive, but the prospects for their realization have died.

The conflict of interest between Russia and some former Soviet republics, as well as the preservation of Ukraine's independence and identity, indicate the complex relationships in the region. Russian imperial ambitions have met resistance and a refusal from countries to depend on Moscow, making control over former Soviet territories increasingly difficult for Russia.