The Ukraine conflict in the context of Russia-US relationship

Abstract

Prerequisites for a Russia-Ukraine crisis have been maturing since the end of the Cold War. The conflict derives from a clash of Russian and U.S. interests which were on a collision course since NATO summit decision of 2008 to open doors for Ukraine future membership. The United States neglected Russian warnings that NATO’s intention to incorporate Ukraine into the Western military structure is absolutely unacceptable for Moscow since these plans pose a grave threat to Russia’s national security. NATO eastwards expansion with a perspective of Ukraine membership in the alliance, as well as the U.S. steps aimed at turning this large post-Soviet country into a sword against Russia made the conflict inevitable. The military campaign on the Ukrainian territory ruined the relations between Russia and the West, though they have been deteriorating for many years. The crisis affected actually all key international players, redefining geopolitical fault lines in the world.