It's essential for the U.S. and Europe to prevent Putin from going farther and reversing the hard-won independence of former Soviet republics.

The quote by George Packer emphasizes the importance of maintaining the independence of former Soviet republics in the face of increasing Russian aggression under Vladimir Putin. Packer is highlighting the risk that these nations could lose the sovereignty they gained after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. The statement calls attention to the geopolitical struggle between Russia, the U.S., and Europe in the context of Eastern Europe and Central Asia's security.

The quote is rooted in the geopolitical tensions that have escalated since Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its subsequent involvement in Ukraine. Packer's message reflects the need for the U.S. and Europe to act as guardians of the hard-won independence of countries like Ukraine, Georgia, and the Baltic states. These nations, once under Soviet control, gained autonomy with the collapse of the Soviet system but now face the threat of Russian imperialism attempting to reverse that progress.

In a broader sense, Packer is also underscoring the idea that the post-Cold War world order—which was meant to ensure the stability and autonomy of nations once controlled by the Soviet Union—must be preserved. If these smaller nations fall under Russian control again, it would represent a dangerous shift in global power dynamics. The quote also speaks to the role of Western alliances—like NATO and the EU—in resisting Putin's expansionist ambitions and preserving the stability of the region.

Ultimately, George Packer’s statement is a warning. The U.S. and Europe must recognize the importance of defending the independence of former Soviet republics, not just for their own sake, but to prevent a larger geopolitical shift that could reshape global power structures and bring back authoritarian dominance in a region that has fought hard for its freedom.