According to reports, when Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated that his country will launch a military campaign in eastern Ukraine, there were blasts and explosions in Ukrainian cities.

As a result, we've discussed some of the likely reasons for Russia's decision to conduct the military operation despite threats of severe penalties from the US and several European countries.

1. To prevent Ukraine from becoming a member of NATO.

NATO, or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is an intergovernmental military alliance whose goal is "to ensure the independence and security of its members through political and military means," according to the study.

Russia, we believe, sees Ukraine's membership in NATO as a threat to its borders. This is because it will allow NATO member nations, including the United States, to establish a military base on their border. Russia does not want this since there has always been a distrust between the two countries.

2. To bring about a change of government in Ukraine.

Another reason they may be carrying out the invasion is to bring about a change of government in Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine is in favor of Ukraine joining NATO. One method Russia may prevent this is to seize control of Ukraine and install a president who does not share Zelenskyy's goal.

3. To broaden their horizons.

Before beginning the assault, Russia announced that the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic and Luhansk People's Republic in Eastern Ukraine had been recognized as independent entities.

4. Putin falsely claims that Ukraine is not a country.

Putin stated Ukraine is not a legitimate country in a lengthy speech on Monday, saying, "Ukraine has never had its own authentic sovereignty." In Ukraine, there has never been a viable statehood."