The relationship between Russia and Ukraine are complicated by a number of issues. They include but are not limited to gas supply, the current status of the Russian language in Ukraine, Yushchenko’s intentions to join NATO, the future of the Black Sea Fleet in Sevastopol, and heroization of Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN) and the Ukrainian Rebel Army (URA).
Would positive changes take place if the power in Ukraine was transferred to Victor Yanukovych? Irina Berezhnaya, a delegate of Verkhovnaya Rada of Ukraine (the Ukrainian Parliament), the Party of Regions, shared her thoughts with Pravda.Ru.
- Who is to blame for worsened relationship between Russia and Ukraine?
- Chasing the dream of becoming a member of the EU, Ukraine made a number of irrevocable mistakes in foreign policy. These mistakes include unreasonable unilateral cancellation of visa regime with the European Union, loss of legal argument with Romania regarding Snake Island, and support of Georgia during its war with South Ossetia.
The most unforgivable mistake was aggravating the situation with Russia. Within the last five years, “orange” power in Ukraine did everything possible to worsen its relationship with Russia and continues to do so.
Yushchenko’s policy does not take into account public opinion. According to polls, 41% of Ukrainians believe that the best way out of the crisis is strengthening the economic collaboration with Russia. 14% think that seeking help from the EU is not rational, and 3% think that the USA would not help either.
52% of those polled agree that Ukrainians and Russians share brotherhood.
There is another side to this issue. Some Russian politicians aggravate Anti-Russian attitude in Ukraine by open anti-Ukrainian declamations (for example, by questioning the fact that the Crimea belongs to Ukraine). This is cleverly used by nationalists who portray Russia as an enemy.
Therefore, Russian politicians should stick to constructive expressions and avoid harsh words.
- Is the new “gas crisis” likely to happen in December and January?
- It will occur during the heat of the presidential campaign. Presently the country is swept with the populism of the current government that is trying to do everything in its power to remain in office. It is difficult to forecast its behavior in regard with the gas issue. Complicated situation with Ukraine Oil & Gas that is on the brink of bankruptcy should be taken into account.
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