What's at stake in Ukraine? A preliminary list
Ukraine's existence as a sovereign and independent state -- the outcome of 1991, when the Soviet Union fell apart.
Russia's further identity and character: a nation state that accepts to be limited by international borders (the outcome of 1991) -- or an empire that is using military power in order to gain territory and control about others?
The security and independence of Moldova and Georgia, and potentially Kazakhstan (among others).
The balance of power in the Black Sea — which is why Turkey is so concerned about Russia's war against Ukraine.
The security of Northern Europe, namely Finland and Sweden, which are not explicitly protected by a Nato security guarantee.
Europe's security — Nato's borders which are also the EU's borders. Countries bordering Russia could be next if Russia again becomes an empire built on the idea on expansion and conquest.
International norms as laid down in the UN charter and many other documents. The whole purpose of the UN is to establish rules and institutions to prevent wars of aggression / conquest; if Russia -- supposed to be one the guardians of the system -- succeeds, these norms are gone.
Asian security — if Russia's war of aggression / conquest succeeds, if liberal order is getting weaker and retreats, China will be encouraged to behave equally imperialistic in its neighborhood.
The future course of Belarus also belongs on this list.
In the Middle East and Africa -- Syria, Libya, Mali, other countries will also be affected, in one way or the other
Of course Western Balkans -- namely Serbia.
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