The conflict in Ukraine that has been going on since 2014 has attracted world attention, especially regarding Russia’s very significant role. Behind every military and diplomatic action, there are various motivations that shape Russia’s policy towards Ukraine. Firstly, the geographical aspect plays a big role. Ukraine borders Russia directly, and has a strategic location connecting Europe and Asia. Russia’s control of Ukrainian territory further strengthens its geopolitical power and reduces Western influence, especially NATO, near its borders. Russia sees NATO’s presence in Ukraine as a direct threat to its security. Second, the history and deep cultural ties between Russia and Ukraine play a role in creating these tensions. Many Ukrainians have Russian ancestry and the Russian language is associated with a collective identity. This divided society creates tensions as the Ukrainian government seeks to strengthen pro-European views. Russia uses the argument of protection of Russian-speaking citizens as one of the rationale for its intervention. Furthermore, there are internal political factors in Ukraine which are driving the conflict. When the pro-Russian government in Ukraine was overthrown in 2014, the Kremlin saw an opportunity to intervene and support separatists in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Here, Russia wants to create a new zone of influence and prevent Ukraine’s integration into European structures. Apart from that, economics is also an important reason behind Russia’s behavior. Ukraine is rich in natural resources, including natural gas. By controlling part of Ukraine’s economy, Russia can leverage these resources to increase dependence on Ukraine as well as European countries that import gas from Russia. This becomes a bargaining tool for Russia in achieving its political goals. On the other hand, international sanctions imposed by Western countries after the annexation of Crimea in 2014 have added to the dynamics of the conflict. Despite facing economic pressure, Russia is still trying to engage in alternative diplomacy, such as gathering support from allied countries in Asia and Africa. The role of the media cannot be ignored either. Propaganda spread by the Russian government seeks to shape a narrative that supports its actions, change domestic public views and exercise influence among the international community. In that context, Russia’s role in the Ukrainian conflict is not only limited to military intervention. It includes interrelated economic, political and social dimensions. In the midst of these tensions, diplomatic efforts to reach a peaceful solution are still ongoing, but the challenges are enormous considering the complexity of the issues involved. Looking ahead, regional stability and Ukraine’s desire to move closer to Europe will continue to be flashpoints, with Russia seeking to maintain its influence. These dynamics create the possibility of further tensions, which could affect stability not only in Ukraine, but also in Europe as a whole.