It is. Putin's strategy appears to be to encourage it to either be neutral, a puppet of Russia or failing that to break it - drive to to become a failed state.
It somewhat parallels the US's approach to Cuba.
The US's approach to Ukraine is that much like Georgia it's a cheap way to stir up trouble for Russia and sap its military strength but actually protecting its citizens isnt considered worthwhile, although this seems to have escaped the notice of at least half the citizens and its President.
Zelenskyy is kind of getting played by both powers and Ukraine is slowly getting torn to pieces as a result.