ABSTRACT
This chapter offers a more detailed analytical narrative that elaborates and traces the blended nature of this conflict in relation to the antagonistic penetration of the post-Soviet region in which it has evolved since late 2013, emphasising the connections between the dynamics on the local, national and regional/global levels of analysis. In addition, Ukraine would claim compensation from Russia; even if no material compensation was forthcoming, this would still be a morale-boosting victory for the Ukrainian people; and, as a result, the Ukrainian nation-state and national identity would be strengthened and consolidated. The resulting loss of legitimacy and public trust in the post-Maidan government in Kyiv has, thus, created new opportunities for Russia to shape domestic politics in Ukraine beyond Donbas. Remizov points out that the population of Donbas is psychologically unprepared to live for long in unrecognised states, which is likely to result in dissatisfaction and consequent mass protests.
