Ukrainian Security Policy

Ukraine played a key role in the dissolution of the former USSR, and its continued independence will have a decisive impact upon the transformation of Russia itself into either a new empire or Western democracy. The economic crisis and mismanagement that engulfed Ukraine during 1993 through 1994 led many in the West and among Ukraine's neighbors to question the country's long-term viability as an independent state. In 1995 Ukraine has entered a new era reflecting its importance as a linchpin of regional security and stability in Europe. This study discusses Ukrainian security policies and their implications for Western policy. It makes a compelling case for greater Western aid and political support for Ukrainian independence and territorial integrity.

This volume analyzes Ukraine's security policies in the light of current threats to Western and regional security and outlines the implications for Western policy-making.

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Discusses the emerging geopolitical significance of Ukraine and reviews the major elements and sources of Ukrainian security policy. An overview chapter outlines the legacy of regional divisions and territorial threats to Ukrainian independence, with subsequent chapters addressing domestic challenges to independence and the country's policies regarding nuclear weapons, the Black Sea Fleet, and Russia. The final chapter offers recommendations for relations with the West, Russia, and central Europe. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

TARAS KUZIO is a research fellow at the Center for Russian and East European Studies, University of Birmingham, England, and an honorary research fellow at the School of Slavonic and East European Studies, University of London.