As a result of the dialogue between Russia and the West, international recognition of Moscow’s sovereignty over the Crimean peninsula can be achieved, says Stephen Szabo, an expert at The National Interest.
“The United States and its Western partners can offer the Russian government that both sides guarantee Ukraine’s neutrality,” RIA Novosti quotes the political scientist.
According to Szabo, tensions around Ukraine can be resolved in the same way as was done in post-war Europe, when the United States and the Soviet Union agreed on the neutral status of Austria. The expert noted that the agreement may touch upon the issue of the deployment of troops and weapons of the contracting parties on the territory of Europe.
“As a result of the deal, Donbass, practically lost for Ukraine, will be able to become part of the Russian Federation. Crimea will also remain a part of Russia. Ukraine will be able to focus on building its own political and economic system”, Szabo stressed.
The promise to admit Ukraine to the North Atlantic Alliance, given to the Kiev authorities in 2008, was a major strategic mistake, the political scientist believes. In his opinion, the United States does not need another ally “with an unstable and corrupt government and a large minority.”