Per Stig Møller: Mother Russia has always been the evil stepmother

The article questions the fundamental premise of Russia seeking a positive relationship with Ukraine, given the current conflict. It posits that Russia's actions, bombing, shooting, and terrorizing Ukrainians, make the idea of future coexistence deeply improbable. The author wonders what joy Russians could possibly find in living alongside a population that has actively sought to distance itself from them.

This perspective frames Russia's actions as an attempt to forcibly integrate Ukraine, a move met with fierce resistance. The article emphasizes that the approximately 38 million Ukrainians have demonstrated a clear and consistent desire to be free from Russian influence. This aspiration for self-determination is presented as an insurmountable barrier to any notion of a harmonious relationship.

The piece suggests a fundamental misunderstanding on Russia's part regarding the aspirations of the Ukrainian people. Instead of fostering goodwill, Russia's military campaign appears to have solidified Ukraine's resolve to remain independent. The author implies that Russia's strategy is counterproductive, alienating the very population it might hope to influence or control.

Ultimately, the article conveys a strong sense of skepticism about Russia's objectives and its approach to Ukraine. It argues that the current path Russia is pursuing makes any positive future relationship between the two nations virtually impossible, given Ukraine's unwavering commitment to its sovereignty and freedom.