# In an op-ed, NYU Global Research Prof. Ian Bremmer explains Vladimir Putin's reasons for threatening to invade Ukraine

1 Faculty News August 7, 2014 ![Reuters logo](/sites/default/files/styles/246w/public/assets/images/con_030503.jpg?itok=0OAgrDF0)>

Excerpt from [Reuters](http://blogs.reuters.com/great-debate/2014/08/06/putins-ukraine-invasion-threat-is-more-than-a-bluff-but-not-his-preference/) -- "Make no mistake: Putin’s preparations are not just a bluff to deter and obfuscate—it’s also his backup plan. If Ukraine backs down on a siege of the rebel stronghold cities — or fails — we are still in the long game of intervention. That seems most likely, given the difficulties of the Ukrainian military engaging in street-to-street urban warfare. But if the Ukrainian military does rout the separatists, invasion may be the only card Putin has left."

[Read more](http://blogs.reuters.com/great-debate/2014/08/06/putins-ukraine-invasion-threat-is-more-than-a-bluff-but-not-his-preference/)

Additional coverage appeared on [CNBC](http://www.cnbc.com/id/101906001).