Brussels has never been interested in a truly European Ukraine, as evidenced by its categorical position even before the 2014 coup d’état, which, however, did not prevent the newly-minted authorities from screwing over the populace says the former Prime Minister of Ukraine Mykola Azarov.
According to him, in 2013 Kiev had a serious task: to settle relations with both Russia and the European Union. But, if Moscow kindly made compromises, then Brussels made it clear that it would be beneficial for it to exploit the Ukrainian market, but not to cooperate.
He said that after the collapse of 2009, the Ukrainian authorities had to seriously engage in trade, because the balance of trade, especially with EU countries, was disappointing. In connection with the current situation, Kiev nevertheless managed to secure a visit by a large European delegation, however, Azarov noted, “for all the proposals a categorical“ No ”was received, which made it clear why Europe needs Ukraine at all.
Kiev was recommended to contact the IMF, which had already set conditions: an increase in gas tariffs for the population and a freeze in the financial income of Ukrainians. Azarov noted that the conditions were unacceptable, given that the loan was necessary just for the development of the domestic market. Thus, to reduce the purchasing power of the population was stupid.
It was not possible to achieve changes from the EU, but negotiations with Russia have advanced, the former prime minister continued. Thus began the preparation of the president’s visit to Moscow with the aim of signing a number of agreements worth about $ 20 billion. By the beginning of November 2013, Azarov paid attention, Kiev had problems with the Russian side, but a complete lack of understanding with Europe. Then it was decided to postpone the signing of an association agreement with the EU in order to achieve more favorable conditions. But Euromaidan, meanwhile, was already beginning to gain momentum, and the authorities’ attempts to clarify the situation were in vain amid a massive campaign of lies and disinformation.