Historical and political aspects of Ukrainian Way to Independence

Abstract

Ukraine as a country located in Eastern Europe and a neighbour of the Republic of Poland is its important economic partner, however, knowledge about the recent history of Ukraine and the reasons for its current geopolitical situation are generally unknown. This article attempts to analyze determinants influencing current geopolitical situation of Ukraine. Short history of this territory has been shown from its very beginning to structural transformation of first half of nineties XX c., including political opposition and the process of gaining independence from Soviet Union. The article touches the problem of rebuilding of national identity of ukrainian citizens showing key differences with Crimea and its influence on political scene. Differential characteristic of transformational processes in Poland and in Ukraine is also included. Attitude of EU and USA to Ukrainian independence is also explored. Difficult history and long lack of independent state have significant influence on Ukrainian condition