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The return of Ukraine within the Russian sphere of influence is frequently cited as Vladimir Putin’s main goal in the invasion launched on February 24th, 2022, as well as in the phase of pressure and threats which preceded it. While the illegitimacy of this goal according to international law is commonly cited, the period of tension leading up to the war has shed light on disagreements around which means and responses should be adopted, particularly between the United States and their European NATO allies. This article discusses the concept of sphere of influence, which is central to the debate around the international situation of Ukraine, and allows for a more precise study on particular Russian and American practices developed for this particular means of international relations.