Unfinished Empire - by Donnacha O Beachain

About the Book

An essential primer for the reader looking to understand the consequences of the war with Ukraine for Russia's regional relationships with bordering countries and Russia's place in the world beyond the binary East-West tensions.

Book Synopsis

For centuries, Russian imperialism has shaped the fate of its neighbours, from the tsarist conquests to Soviet domination and today's relentless aggression. This book exposes the Kremlin's enduring ambition to control its periphery, dismantling the myths used to justify its actions - from claims of shared history to the weaponization of security and culture. It reveals how Russia has sought to subordinate neighbouring states, and how these nations have resisted, asserting their sovereignty in defiance of Moscow's pressure.

In this incisive and compelling analysis of Russia's enduring imperial mindset, Donnacha Ó Beacháin sheds critical light on how history, politics and power continue to collide in Ukraine and beyond, and why breaking the cycle of domination is vital for global security. It is essential reading for grasping the complexities of the current geopolitical crisis.

Review Quotes

Professor Ó Beacháin offers an incisive and timely analysis of Russia's geopolitical ambitions. Should Russia succeed, the ramifications for Europe would be profound. This book is an essential resource for those seeking to understand and counter the threat posed by Putin's expanding agenda.--Thomas Byrne, Minister of State for European Affairs, Ireland

This insightful and highly topical new book makes it clear that we don't have a Putin problem. We have a Russia problem. Imperialism, militarism and chauvinism fuel the Kremlin's war in Ukraine and its attempts to overturn Europe's security order. If you care about our safety and freedom, read this book.--Edward Lucas, Senior Fellow, Center for European Policy Analysis

Russian imperialism is at the root of the bloodiest armed conflict of the twenty-first century so far. It is only through understanding the basis of such conflicts that we can prevent them from repeating in the future. A vivid, insightful, and extremely helpful study.--General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Ambassador of Ukraine to the UK, Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces, 2021-24

A gripping and incisive portrait of Russia and its brutal attack on Ukraine. Ó Beacháin roots Moscow's imperial ambitions in history and gives a compelling account of its neighbours, seen then and now as colonies. A super guide.--Luke Harding, author of Invasion: Russia's Bloody War and Ukraine's Fight for Survival

This book offers a searing indictment of Russian imperialism and a profound exploration of Ukraine's struggle for sovereignty. A timely and necessary contribution to understanding the forces shaping Europe today.--Aleksander Kwaśniewski, President of Poland, 1995-2005

About the Author

Donnacha Ó Beacháin is Professor of Politics at Dublin City University.