Russian Policy towards Ukraine: Tools of Influence
Russian Policy towards Ukraine: Tools of Influence
Author(s): Andrzej SzeptyckiSubject(s): Politics / Political Sciences
Published by: PISM Polski Instytut Spraw Międzynarodowych
Keywords: Leonid Kuchma; Viktor Yushchenko; “Orange Revolution”; Oligarchic groups in Ukraine; Anti-establishment parties; Direct interference with the electoral process; Ukrainian energy sector; Problem of the Ukrainian border;
Summary/Abstract: The relations between the Russian Federation and Ukraine are an important component of the international situation in the area of the former Soviet Union. In terms of population and GDP in the region, Ukraine is second only to Russia. The majority of Russian elites and society have never come to terms with the loss of Ukraine, believing that it is the eternal part of the Russian empire and that control over it is a precondition for Russia’s strong international position. Finally, both states remain closely interconnected, which allows the stronger partner, which is Russia, to exert pressure on the counterpart, and thwart its attempts at independent policy making.
Journal: The Polish Quarterly of International Affairs
- Issue Year: 16/2007
- Issue No: 1
- Page Range: 68-93
- Page Count: 26
- Language: English
