Understanding Russian Imperialism | Donnacha Ó Beacháin

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What drives Russian imperialism today? In this in-depth conversation, James Ker-Lindsay speaks with Professor Donnacha Ó Beacháin, author of Unfinished Empire: Russian Imperialism in Ukraine and the Near Abroad, to explore the roots and realities of Russian expansionism. From the Tsarist conquests through Soviet control to Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, they trace the continuous thread of imperial ambition that has shaped Russia’s past and present. This compelling discussion examines how Russia’s land empire differs from sea-based colonial models, why democratisation has never taken hold, and why Russia continues to seek territorial expansion despite being the world’s largest country.

The conversation also explores the collapse of the Soviet Union, the emotional and strategic impact on the Russian psyche, and how Putin's regime has revived traditional imperial rhetoric. With comparisons to other historical empires and insights into regions such as Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Ukraine, this video offers vital context for understanding modern Russian foreign policy, military aggression, and the future stability of the Russian Federation. Is the war in Ukraine the final act—or just another chapter in a centuries-long imperial project? Watch now for expert insight into one of the most urgent geopolitical issues of our time.

Donnacha Ó Beacháin is Professor of Politics at the School of Law and Government, Dublin City University (DCU), where he lectures on post-Soviet politics, unrecognised states, Irish studies and foreign policy. He has twice been awarded the accolade “Champion of European Research” by Ireland’s National Support Network for FP7 and Horizon2020 and, in 2022, he was awarded the President’s Research Award for best researcher in the field of Humanities and Social Sciences, Business and Education. His monograph From Partition to Brexit: The Irish Government and Northern Ireland (Manchester University Press) was the 2019 recipient of the Political Studies Association of Ireland's Brian Farrell prize for book of the year. Other books include 'The Colour Revolutions in the Former Soviet Republics: Successes and Failures' (with Abel Polese, Routledge, 2010), and 'Life in Post-Communist Eastern Europe after EU Membership: Happy Ever After?' (with Vera Sheridan and Sabina Stan, Routledge, 2012).

His latest book is:
Unfinished Empire: Russian Imperialism in Ukraine and the Near Abroad


*VIDEO CHAPTERS*
00:00 Introduction and Titles
00:33 How Did Russia Become an Empire?
11:01 Russian Imperialism During the Soviet Era
19:30 Russia After the USSR
24:22 The Reasons for Russia's War in Georgia and Ukraine
33:10 Does Russia Want Territory Beyond Ukraine?
40:58 Will Russia Break Apart?

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