“Ukraine did not seek greatness. But Ukraine has become great.”
Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24th, 2022, in the most significant escalation of the Russo-Ukrainian war since the annexation of Crimea in 2014. This invasion marks the most significant conflict in mainland Europe since World War 2, resulting in tens of thousands of casualties and causing 8 million Ukrainians to be displaced within their country. In addition, another 8 million refugees have fled abroad, making it the largest refugee crisis in Europe.
If you want to gain a better understanding of the conflict, its root causes, and potential outcomes, join us here at What We Reading for our list of the 9 best books on the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
The Death Of A Soldier Told By His Sister – Olesya Khromeychuk
Historian Olesya Khromeychuk shares her personal memoir, The Death of a Soldier, about her brother who was killed in Eastern Ukraine in 2017. In addition to her brother’s death, she also recounts the 2014 Revolution and the annexation of Crimea, providing a detailed account of Ukraine’s struggles and hardships in resisting Russian Imperialism.
This book is a heart-wrenching but essential work that delves into the human cost of conflict through intimate encounters with people living in war zones. It highlights the devastating consequences of war and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing the emotional toll it takes on individuals and communities affected by it.
The Gates Of Europe: A History of Ukraine – Serhii Plokhy
Serhii Plokhy, Professor of History at Harvard University and Director of the Harvard Ukraine Institute, offers readers a comprehensive history of Europe’s changing geographies and politics, starting from the 9th century.
This book provides an invaluable resource for understanding the origins of the modern histories of Russia, Ukraine, and Poland, and how their complex relationships have evolved over the years. It presents a thorough analysis of the geopolitical and historical factors that have shaped the region, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of its current political and social dynamics.
Conflict In Ukraine: The Unwinding of the Post-Cold War Order – Rajan Menon And Eugene Rumer
Rajan Menon and Eugene Rumer’s Conflict in Ukraine explores the crisis’s evolution and the wider ramifications it could have, from the Crimean Peninsula to the heart of NATO.
This book provides a fascinating retrospective of the 2014 Russian annexation of Crimea while also accurately predicting future events.
By identifying key economic and security concerns that arise from strained relations between the US and Russia, Menon and Rumer’s work is invaluable in deciphering post-Cold War politics. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the conflict and its implications for global security, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
The Ukrainians: Unexpected Nation – Andrew Wilson
In The Ukrainians, Professor Andrew Wilson skillfully delves into what makes Ukraine a unique and independent state. He takes readers through the country’s distinct cultures, customs, and identities, making it the perfect book for understanding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and why the country cannot be a mere puppet.
Wilson employs great investigative journalism to uncover how Ukraine came into being and why it stands as a democratic sovereign living in the shadow of its aggressive neighbour.
This book provides an excellent overview of Ukraine’s history, its relationship with Russia, and its complex political and cultural landscape. It is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding Ukraine’s past and present, and its significance for global politics.
Red Famine – Anne Applebaum
One of the most consequential moments in the strained history between Russia and Ukraine occurred during the 1930s under the leadership of Joseph Stalin. The Soviet Union, as it was then, enforced a famine against supposed Kulaks, successful farmers in the region, resulting in the deaths of up to 5 million Ukrainians.
Red Famine by Anne Applebaum investigates the Holodomor, including why it was orchestrated and why it still impacts relations between the two states today. It is a hauntingly powerful read that demonstrates how abuses have been almost repetitive from Ukraine’s neighbouring state.
Through her meticulous research and analysis, Applebaum sheds light on this tragic period of Ukrainian history, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between Russia and Ukraine. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the roots of the current conflict in the region.
Voices Of Resistance And Solidarity – Ukraine Solidarity Campaign
Voices of Resistance and Solidarity is a comprehensive collection of responses to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, featuring contributions from activists, campaigners, and politicians. The book criticizes the lackadaisical reaction from certain sections of the world and provides a holistic look at the incredible struggle of Ukraine’s working classes.
In addition to documenting the resistance to the invasion, the book tackles post-war reconstruction scenarios and explores how selective anti-Imperialism could lead to Ukraine being sold out.
It offers a valuable perspective on the ongoing conflict, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by Ukraine and the international community. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the current crisis and the future of Ukraine.
Midnight In Chernobyl – Adam Higginbotham
Midnight in Chernobyl by journalist Adam Higginbotham is a detailed and well-researched account of the biggest nuclear disaster in history. The book brings the events leading up to the Chernobyl disaster in 1986 to life through captivating storytelling.
The disaster occurred during a routine safety check, which resulted in the Soviet Union spewing nuclear waste across most of Europe. Hundreds of workers and firefighters lost their lives fighting the fallout, and over 130 survivors later died from various cancers due to exposure.
Set in modern-day Ukraine, Higginbotham explores how intrigue and bureaucracy were used to mask the truth and save face in the aftermath of the accident. This book provides readers with a compelling and informative insight into the tragedy and its devastating consequences.
In Wartime: Stories From Ukraine – Tim Judah
Tim Judah’s In Wartime: Stories from Ukraine brings to life the human side of Ukraine, which is the second-largest country in Europe and home to a diverse array of cultures and unique people.
This book powerfully depicts the devastating impact that Russia’s invasion has had on the lives of Ukrainians. Through stories of mothers, soldiers, businessmen, and artists, Judah provides a harrowing look at what life in a warzone is really like.
Putin’s People – Catherine Belton
Catherine Belton’s book, Putin’s People, offers a detailed analysis of how Vladimir Putin has risen to power and maintained his control over Russia through the support of his oligarchs and KGB allies.
Through extensive research and investigation, Belton explores how Putin has used his power to finance extremist politics in Europe, meddle in the US Presidential election, and initiate a brutal war in Ukraine. This gripping and frightening book sheds light on the kleptocracy in power in Russia and provides insight into the motives and actions of Putin and his inner circle.
Check Out The Best Books About Russia
Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).
