Cooperation between Ukraine and the European Union within the Framework of the Common Security and Defense Policy of the EU

Abstract

This article discloses the political, legal, financial, economic, and military aspects of Ukraine-EU cooperation within the EU Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP). The historical stages, mechanisms of development, special structural and organizational characteristics of the CSDP, and its tools for implementing the tasks that envisage involvement of the third of countries in the cooperation are considered. The experience of Ukraine’s involvement in EU peacekeeping operations as well as operation of EU civil missions in Ukraine is analyzed. Special attention is paid to the engagement of Ukraine in EU Security and Defense Policy after the conclusion of the Association Agreement in 2014. Enhanced cooperation in different forms after Russia launched its war on Ukraine in 2022 is the focus of attention, particularly the strengthening of political and economic sanctions imposed by the EU on Russia, provision of humanitarian and financial assistance to Ukraine, weapons exports, cybersecurity guarantees, and prospects for the introduction of a military mission. Certain benefits of such a cooperation for the EU and its CSDP are identified as well.