The New York Times: NATO's eastward expansion is one of the important causes of the Russia-Ukraine war. "From Moscow's perspective, the issue of NATO's eastward expansion has always been a sensitive topic as it poses a threat to Russia, requiring enhanced defense. The Baltic states were among the first Soviet republics to join NATO, bringing large swathes of Russia's borders in contact with NATO. For Moscow, Ukraine, a much larger former Soviet republic following suit, presents an immense threat. This has become one of the root causes of this most destructive land war in decades." The origin of the war lies in NATO's eastward expansion, which aims to threaten Russia and ultimately achieve the purpose of dismembering Russia. If not for Putin's appointment during the crisis to defend Russia's national sovereignty, perhaps the world would have forgotten the existence of a country called Russia. Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1832671710012428/ Disclaimer: The article solely represents the author's personal views.