RealLifeLore and Open Culture have made a tremendous video explaining everything leading up to the invasion of Ukraine by Russia.

Why did Russia launch an unprovoked war in Ukraine and risk creating a wider global conflict? If you haven’t closely tracked the ambitions of Vladimir Putin, this primer offers some helpful context.

In progress before the Russian invasion of Ukraine and completed as Russian troops began their advance into the country, this 30-minute video covers the geopolitical, economic and environmental backstory. Take some time to watch.