Why is there war between Ukraine and Russia?

The war between Ukraine and Russia, which escalated significantly in 2022, stems from long-standing tensions over Ukraine's political alignment and territorial integrity. After Ukraine's 2014 Euromaidan protests and the subsequent annexation of Crimea by Russia, conflict erupted in Eastern Ukraine, where pro-Russian separatists declared independence. Russia's broader aim appears to be to reassert its influence in the region and prevent Ukraine from integrating further with Western institutions like NATO and the EU. The situation is fueled by historical grievances, national identity issues, and geopolitical power struggles.