[NicoJuicy]

Dictators like Putin don't rule by normal logic.

In this case it's imperialism:

- Donbas: rich on natural resources

- Crimea: large amount of gas was found in 2008. Project by shell was ready in late 2013.

They invaded in 2014.

[mrguyorama]

You're forgetting literally the most important parts: Putin wants to be remembered as a unifier of Russia.

[NicoJuicy]

I don't think he really cares. Sure, he would like that.

But if he needs to choose between his "moral code" and his big fat palace.

The palace wins

[WeylandYutani]

The Russian elite doesn't give a shit about their country. They just want to milk it dry and enjoy Western lifestyle.