Despite their many disagreements, both appear oblivious to the root cause of Moscow’s aggression – an empire built on violence and deceit, masquerading as a nation. Neither is willing to confront this foundational lie that anchors their country’s politics, culture, and self-conception.Age-old Russian colonialism – manifested this century in wars against Ichkeria, Georgia, and Ukraine – endures not through any single leader or regime but through a mindset ingrained in the collective psyche. Rooted in centuries of conquest, Moscow reframes aggression as defense, shielding Russian society from confronting its role in sustaining the empire and its violence. "Age-old Russian colonialism – manifested this century in wars against Ichkeria, Georgia, and Ukraine – endures not through any single leader or regime but through a mindset ingrained in the collective psyche.