that simplifies history as well. The Russians - who were not n control of the Soviet Union did what by imperial/colonial or conquering people did - ensure their new territories (ie the Soviet states) were settled by Russians. That’s why you can see them in countries as alien to Russia as Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan
Ukraine in particular was a target for occupation- it was a means on controlling the population. The Crimean/black sea area was also an attractive holiday destination for the elite class - a little more pleasant than the alternative- lake Issy kul
