Ad
Perhaps a $70 billion or a $100 billion price tag is quite cheap (Photo: wipr.com.ua)

Why does Putin want Crimea anyway?

Why is a world leader prepared to risk international opprobrium and, possibly, crippling economic sanctions for an obscure piece of land?

Russian President Vladimir Putin has already burnt the $54 billion he spent on Russia’s image in the Sochi Winter Olympics.

His aggression has caused the Russian stock market and the ruble to nosedive, forcing his central bank to spend another $12 billion to prop up the currency.

The total cost for his Crimean adventure could end up be...

To read this story, log in or subscribe

Enjoy access to all articles and 25 years of archives, comment and gift articles. Become a member for as low as €1,75 per week.

Already a member? Login

Disclaimer

The views expressed in this opinion piece are the author’s, not those of EUobserver
Ad
Ad

Latest News