# Soviet Nostalgia Is a Geopolitical Dead End

> Ukraine’s surrender to Russia is a dead end for Soviet nostalgia.
- Title: Soviet Nostalgia Is a Geopolitical Dead End · Foreign Policy
- Summary: Ukraine’s surrender to Russia is a dead end for Soviet nostalgia. Soviet nostalgia for Ukraine’s unity with Russia is a dead end for geopolitical stability.
- Keywords: soviet nostalgia, ukraine, russia, geopolitical, realism, historical, kyiv, muscovite, baltic states, nato, patriot interceptors, corruption
- Source: Foreign Policy — https://foreignpolicy.com/2026/11/03/soviet-ukraine-russia-realism-history-nostalgia
- Author: Ani Chkhikvadze
- Published: 2026-11-05T00:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: soviet nostalgia, ukraine, russia, geopolitical, realism, historical, kyiv, muscovite, baltic states, nato, patriot interceptors, corruption
## Soviet nostalgia
Soviet nostalgia for Ukraine’s unity with Russia is a dead end for geopolitical stability.
## The Irony of Fate
A 1976 romantic comedy where a Moscow surgeon ends up in Leningrad after a New Year’s Eve bathhouse incident.

> The Irony of Fate
## Soviet cultural space
Across former Soviet states, people spoke Russian, shared Soviet films, and assumed common cultural space.
## Realist arguments
Some realists argue Ukraine must surrender to Russia for its own good.
## Tucker Carlson
Tucker Carlson claims Ukraine is weak, corrupt, and finished.
## Candace Owens
Candace Owens says Russia lies about its intentions.
## U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene
Marjorie Taylor Greene refuses to support Ukraine aid.
## John Mearsheimer
John Mearsheimer says Russia’s actions are someone else’s fault.
## Francesca Albanese
Francesca Albanese calls for end to arms deliveries to Ukraine.
## Ukraine’s problems
Ukraine lacks men, money, and Patriot interceptors; corruption persists.
## Ukraine’s strength
Ukraine won decisive battle for Kyiv, securing sovereignty and Western support.
## Realist mistake
Realists claim Ukraine must surrender to Russia for its own good.
## Georgian perspective
A Georgian neighbor fears Russian occupation of his village.
## Ukraine’s future
Ukraine’s national identity is recovering but requires time and effort.
## Key takeaway

Soviet nostalgia for Ukraine’s unity with Russia is a dead end for geopolitical stability.