
Russia and the EU are trying to pull Ukraine into their orbit rather than cooperating on what would be best for the country.

The Western media’s focus on Russia has ignored the fact that it was Ukraine’s revolution, made in Ukraine by Ukrainians. But now Ukraine’s domestic politics is full of uncertainty.

Regardless of how the ongoing crisis in Ukraine unfolds, one thing is clear: it has exposed Russia as a declining power masquerading behind insubstantial posturing.

The Ukrainian drama is far from over, and the international actors bear responsibility for its length and excruciatingly painful results.

For years, Ukraine’s neighbors treated the country as part of a geopolitical rivalry. Moving forward hopefully Ukraine’s citizens will focus on their needs while its neighbors encourage their success.

Only the first stage of revolution in Ukraine is over. The serious challenge for Ukraine is how the common people will be involved in controlling the new power.

Moscow needs to play its hands wisely and avoid supporting the separatist movement in Ukraine, which could give Kyiv a pretext to send in troops to restore constitutional order.

Ukrainians must decide what kind of future they want for their country. Germany, Poland, and Russia will have a crucial role to play in Ukraine’s long road ahead.

Ukraine’s “February revolution” is sometimes described as a major blow to Russia and to President Vladimir Putin, personally. In fact, it may be a blessing in disguise for both.

Russia has far less influence in Ukraine than is commonly appreciated. Moscow’s best option is to stand back and wait, while quietly favoring decentralization in Ukraine.