Russia’s Bullying Pushes Ukraine Further West
The European Union (EU) is approaching a major milestone in its relations with Ukraine. Next month, the most valuable state in eastern Europe that remains a non-member will have the opportunity to expand its relations with the West by signing an Association Agreement with the EU. Once signed, the agreement will provide a new framework for EU-Ukrainian relations, deepening trade relations and requiring Kyiv to partly adopt EU legislation. Although it is too early to speak of EU membership for Ukraine, the agreement would be landmark achievement. Not since the 1990s when the decision was made to include the ex-communist countries of central Europe has such a critical moment presented itself for EU expansionists. But will the signing of the Association Agreement actually take place? Although Eurocrats might not want to admit it, Ukraine’s current closeness with the West is not the result of the country’s sudden belief in the importance of democracy, fair play and the rule of law. ...