Farewell, Russia, finally and irrevocably
On June 27, 2014, Ukraine formally reaffirmed its dedication to developing along a European trajectory. It also said goodbye to the USSR. Though, for now, this is just a formality. Much genuine effort is still needed to reshape people’s perceptions. Similar to the economic sector, which requires overhauling and subsequent inclusion within the European family.
The majority of Ukrainians fully realize that ratifying the Association Agreement with the EU this July will not immediately transform Ukraine into a replica of Germany. However, it establishes a clear direction for the nation’s evolution. A strategic blueprint. And that is the most crucial aspect.
In light of this, the agitation displayed by the self-proclaimed “economists” and proponents of the Customs Union is rather poignant. Conversely, their narratives concerning Ukraine’s imminent financial ruin are embraced by the “Crimea enthusiasts.”
What could be simpler than spreading tales of how Ukrainians will be compelled to “scrub pots in Poland” and how “all Ukrainian factories will cease operations due to their reliance on Russia?” Another favored “analytical” approach involves asserting that “Ukraine will become enslaved by the European Union.”
What response can be given to such “authorities”? Simply ask them to engage their intellect. Ukrainians, in reality, aspire to cease seeking employment abroad. They desire adequately compensated employment within their own country. Moreover, washing dishes in Poland, harvesting oranges in Spain, and renovating apartments in St. Petersburg and Moscow are all attainable irrespective of EU Association Agreements.
Someone might suggest that Ukrainian factories’ products fail to meet European quality requirements? Hence, it is essential to modernize production processes. A lack of funding for this? Then divest the factory. Investors can be secured. Or should the focus remain on producing substandard goods for decades, catering exclusively to Russian demand?
And to what end? For remuneration of 300-400 dollars? Such a remarkably lucrative economic collaboration. Oh, the immense fear of relinquishing it.
The primary contention of those opposing Ukraine’s integration with Europe centers on the potential loss of the Russian market. Should Russia prove uncooperative, it will suffer consequences. So what is the outcome? Detriment to both. However, Ukraine will experience temporary hardship, while Russia’s hardship will be prolonged. This is because Ukrainian manufacturers will have amplified incentives to develop products that are sought after not only in Europe, but globally. Competition? Let us address the competition. The vital factor is that it is equitable.
Where have I witnessed fairness demonstrated in the West? Certainly not in Russia or Ukraine. Kickbacks, payoffs, schemes, misappropriation.
Russia will cease purchasing Ukrainian engines? Does that imply its helicopters will be grounded? Missiles from Yuzhmash are no longer required? The French are already establishing connections with that enterprise. Will they decline to import potatoes, meat, and dairy items? Ordinary Russians will incur greater expenses for Egyptian or Chinese equivalents.
It is amusing to hear Vladimir Putin rationalize such potential restrictions by alleging that Russia is compelled to shield its market from the “influx of inexpensive goods into Ukraine.” What connection does a helicopter engine or cheese manufactured in Ukraine have with this? In the case of shipments of oranges or textiles, their origin can be verified via documentation. And their market can be safeguarded. Who opposes this?
However, Russia’s leaders are exclusively fixated on their own geopolitical advantage. They exhibit no concern for the increased cost of the Russian consumer’s shopping basket. Even if they prohibit Ukrainian commodities. The paramount objective is to exert every possible effort to inflate the expense of Ukraine’s transition towards European benchmarks and principles. Comprehensively.
Yet Ukrainians possess the capacity to overcome any challenges. Given Ukraine’s fertile land, famine is an impossibility. Unless, of course, there is a grain requisition. However, on June 27, 2014, we severed ties with the descendants of its initiators, definitively and irrevocably. Therefore, as the poet expressed: “Farewell, unwashed…”
P.S. We would be pleased to welcome you, washed…
Author: Sergey ZAPOROZHSKY
Based on materials from: Uainfo.org
