Today, we are reviewing Michael Kimmage's "Collisions - Ukraine, Russia, and the West," which examines the origins of the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, tracing the complex interplay of historical grievances, geopolitical maneuvering, and miscalculations by both Russia and the West. The book analyzes four key factors: Russia's enduring desire to control Ukraine, Ukraine's precarious geopolitical position, the West's inconsistent policies toward Ukraine, and Putin's gamble against American power. Kimmage contrasts the approaches of different US presidents (from Clinton to Biden) and European leaders (like Merkel), highlighting shifting geopolitical dynamics and the impact of events like the Arab Spring and the Trump presidency. Ultimately, the book argues that the war resulted from a confluence of these factors rather than a single cause, revealing a long-standing tension between Russia and the West that culminated in the devastating conflict.Our podcast leverages AI to enhance every episode, from generating voices to crafting initial scripts. Through thoughtful prompting and careful editing, we ensure each episode provides accurate and insightful commentary inspired by books we've read or ones recommended by our listeners. By using AI, we deliver consistent, high-quality content more efficiently, allowing us to focus on bringing valuable discussions to you.We understand that books, authors, and topics spark diverse opinions. That’s why our goal is to present a variety of perspectives that encourage thoughtful analysis and critical engagement with the issues we explore.Have a book you’d like us to review in our signature style? Share your recommendation—we’d love to dive in!