Russia’s actions in Crimea in 2014 prompted international sanctions and Western attempts to isolate the Kremlin. And relations between Russia and the West remain at their lowest level since the end of the Cold War. But the West’s response has had no effect whatsoever on Russia’s position. Despite international protests, Russia is in full control of the peninsula and nearby areas. Infrastructure has been built there, including a road and rail bridge across the Kerch Strait to connect Crimea to Krasnodar Krai in Russia.

RE: Peaceful Settlement to Conflict in Ukraine,  Sovereignty, Territorial Integrity of Crimea, Donbas Region

Speakers

Source: World's Top Exports (WTEx)

Amount and % of EU Total

Source: Eurostat

Decrease

Source: Yearbook by l’Observatoire, Analytical Center at the Franco-Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (First published in 2018)

1. Status Quo” (a Weak Ukraine — Confrontation)

The economic arguments against staying in the EU Customs Union are important, but the political and constitutional consequences are even more profound. Staying inside the EU Customs Union after ceasing to be a Member State would necessarily entail a severe and continuing curtailment of the UK’s powers to govern itself as an independent state and would subject it to the continuing effective jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice (ECJ). In particular:

Source: Transparency International

In the last few months, several unsavory developments involving top government officials, continued attacks on activists and civil society and increased distrust between citizens and government, present a worrying picture of rampant corruption in Ukraine.

29 March: MPs rejected Withdrawal Agreement. Brexit date stays as 12 April

1st April: Second day of indicative votes. Clear results? If Theresa May accepts Plan, government will try to implement decision. Possible further extension.

If Theresa May does not accept Plan

12 April

1. No deal Brexit
2. Cancel Brexit

Date: (?) Further Extension. Uk will take part in European election 

Italy is one of the countries with which Russia has a major trade turnover despite EU sanctions against Moscow. Italian businesses are actively investing in Russia. Italian companies have always had faith in the Russian market and the trade ties between the two states are improving.

Italy and Russia have very close cultural and historical ties. Italy is very interested in its relationship with Russia in the geopolitical arena. Italy hopes that it can play a decisive role in restoring ties between Russia and the EU.

Author: Elena Lazarou, Assistant Professor Getulio Vargas Foundation