What is the history of Ukraine and Russia?
Russia and Ukraine used to be a part of the Soviet Union since 1922. In 1991, the Soviet Union split into different countries. Ukraine was one such country that gained [[independence::Freedom]] from the Soviet Union at this time.
In 2014, Mr. Viktor Yanukovych, president of Ukraine, rejected a deal with European countries because he wanted to remain close to Russia. As a result, he was removed from his position by the people of Ukraine. In response, Russia took over a part of Ukraine called Crimea.
What is the recent [[conflict::A fight between two or more groups of people or countries.]] about?
The conflict is about Russia not wanting Ukraine to get close to or join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). NATO is a group of thirty countries that have agreed to defend each other if they are attacked by any other country. Recently, Ukraine has also been made a “partner country” to NATO.
Why is this conflict in the news now?
Russia gathered more than 100,000 of its [[troops::A group of Soldiers]] at its border with Ukraine, recently. This led to a fear that Russia might start a war with Ukraine to take over it.
Russia made it clear that it did not want to start a war. It demanded that Ukraine and other nations which were a part of the Soviet Union not be offered to join NATO. The United States rejected this demand.
What will happen now?
While countries across the world were trying to end this conflict peacefully, on 24 February 2022, Russia declared war on Ukraine. Ukrainian forces are now fighting the Russian military. [[Civilians::A person who is not a part of the police or any defence forces such as army, airforce, etc.]] have either joined the military or are hiding in basements to avoid getting hurt from Russian missiles.
Quick Revision
History: Ukraine and Russia were once part of the same country called the Soviet Union. Ukraine became independent in 1991. In 2014, Russia took control of an area called Crimea.
Conflict: Russia doesn’t want Ukraine to join a group of countries called NATO, which helps each other in wars.
What Happened: In 2022, Russia started a war with Ukraine. Many soldiers and civilians are fighting or hiding to stay safe.
