The book provides a historical overview leading up to the war between Russia and Ukraine, starting from the collapse of the Soviet Union. While arguing Western policy was provocative, it still emphasizes Putin's responsibility for the invasion.
"The speaker mentions 'Provoked' by Scott Horton as the best book on the history leading up to the war in Ukraine. He recommends it for understanding the events from the collapse of the Soviet Union up to the war, even while acknowledging its argument about Western policy being provocative."