Russia has declared war on Ukraine. As per the latest reports, 13 people have been killed in the Russian attacks in Ukraine. The Russian attacks have destroyed air bases in the country. Russia is implementing a multi-pronged attack plan targeting land, air and naval bases in Ukraine.

Geographically, Ukraine is NATO’s route to Russia via eastern Europe. Ukraine joining NATO like other east European countries, is an existential threat for Russia. Missiles and other war equipment being centered in Ukraine by US-led NATO, is suicidal for Russia. Russia claims that Ukraine has been historically and culturally a part of it. Through the current invasion, it is aiming for an influence and security, reminiscent of Soviet Union’s past glory. Ukraine should never become a member of NATO. The military equipment including missiles stationed in the east European countries, such as Poland and Romania, targeting Russia should be withdrawn. These are the demands raised by Russia.

The Russian security envisioned by Putin will be made possible with the occupation of Ukraine. Moreover, war readiness is a matter of Russia’s pride and consequently, Putin’s continuity in power.

However, the rural atmosphere in Ukraine is completely different. The villagers earn a living through agriculture and cattle-rearing. Unlike India, Ukraine is a country where women are highly valued. In every house, it is the women who take decisions. Here, it is not the men who abandon the women, rather women abandon the men. The reasons are similar to ours. Alcoholism, not taking good care of the family; these prompt the Ukrainian women to leave their husbands. The men in Ukraine have huge respect for the women who are the head of the family.

In our country, men engaging in loose talks in junctions and streets are a common sight. However, in Ukraine, it’s[K1] the women who lead in such conversations. There, it is quite common for women to have friendly talks with men in front of hotels and restaurants.