Стр. 34 - V

Электронное приложение к журналу «Международная жизнь»
Author : A. Frolov
Leading research associate, Institute of World Economy and International Relations, Doctor of Science
(Political Science)
UKRAINE has become a pet subject with those
who have something to say and with even a greater
number of those who have not. This explains why it
is not easy to find a profound, balanced and com-
prehensive study based on rational arguments. Too
much of what has been written so far is a heap of
propaganda clichés hence a lot of attention to the
recent fundamental work by Igor Ivanov "Ukrainian
Crisis through the Prism of International Relations" about the sources, evolution and prospects
of the Ukrainian crisis. The author is a well-known figure with a huge amount of practical ex-
perience in international affairs in his past capacity of the foreign minister of Russia and due to
his active participation in public and political life in his present capacity of President of the
Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC). He is well-known all over the world as one of the
most respected experts in international relations and international security personally acquainted
with the main characters of the drama unfolding in Ukraine and around it.
The author has demonstrated once more his abilities of a profound analyst, whose generaliza-
tions and conclusions are indispensable for all political actors. The volume is a collection of ar-
ticles written throughout the crisis and, therefore, connected by a common subject, a common
line of argumentation and generalization, and documentary and chronological appendices.
The author has pointed out that in 2014 the situation and the scope of the crisis differed greatly
from what had happened during the 2008 crisis in the Caucasus. In its time, Russia spoke about
a new European security treaty and a collective security organization expected to bring together
all countries from Vancouver to Vladivostok and all structures (EU, OSCE, CSTO, NATO, and
the CIS) and assume responsibility for settling disputes and disagreements.
The author has warned the readers against three seemingly logical yet absolutely wrong conclu-
sions. First, don't try to build a wall between yourself and the dangerous and unpredictable world;
many societies might opt for isolationism. This is a road leading nowhere. Second, don't try to
profit from the less manageable international system. This is short-sighted and highly dangerous
idea. Third, don't try to capitalize on the conflict's exacerbation. Under current circumstances,
this is irresponsible and politically adventurous.
The author believes that to avoid a deep-cutting and tragic mistake the problems of Ukraine
should not and cannot be reduced to the so-called annexation of Crimea. Its problems are rooted
in the decaying Ukrainian statehood, the crisis of the main institutes of power and economic
devastation.
The book encourages serious contemplations about the present state of international relations.
The Ukrainian Test