The central problem addressed is the growing geopolitical friction resulting from NATO’s post-Cold War trajectory and Russia’s assertive response to perceived encirclement. The primary objective of the research is to critically examine the extent to which NATO’s strategic advances have influenced Russia’s foreign policy behavior, using the Ukraine crisis as a focal point. Employing a qualitative methodology based on secondary data analysis, the study is grounded in the theoretical frameworks of realism and constructivism. While realism highlights the strategic rivalry and power politics at play, constructivism provides insights into identity, perception, and historical narratives shaping state behavior. The significance of this research lies in its ability to bridge theoretical discourse with practical policy implications. Findings reveal that NATO’s expansion, though intended to promote stability, has been interpreted by Russia as a direct threat to its sphere of influence and national security, prompting aggressive responses. The study concludes that the current security architecture is unsustainable and prone to escalation. It recommends confidence-building measures, a renewed dialogue on European security arrangements, and diplomatic engagement among NATO, Russia, and Ukraine to de-escalate tensions and establish a balanced, cooperative security framework for the region.
Uvere et al. (2025) studied this question.