Against the backdrop of Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to China and meetings with Chinese and Global South leaders, Russian authorities have once again brought back former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych for an information campaign. In his recent statements, Yanukovych claimed he was steering Ukraine toward the European Union but opposed Euro-Atlantic integration.
The author reminds that Yanukovych’s refusal to sign the EU Association Agreement in 2013 triggered a political crisis and revolution, eventually leading to Russian aggression against Ukraine. It is highlighted that signing such an agreement has never guaranteed protection from Russian influence, as demonstrated by similar events in Georgia and Moldova, regardless of their association agreements.
The commentary asserts that Yanukovych was not merely a pro-Russian figure but facilitated groundwork for integrating Ukraine into union structures with Russia and Belarus. The article criticizes Yanukovych’s approach to national defense and security, citing the appointment of Russians to key positions.
The analysis questions why Russia is reviving Yanukovych now. The main aim is to influence parts of the Ukrainian society that still believe in coexistence with Russia and to pave the way for a political comeback of pro-Russian forces in the future. The significance of Ukraine’s sovereignty, won through ongoing war, is emphasized.
The text concludes that, even after the war ends, Russia will likely attempt to influence Ukrainian politics via old or new pro-Russian political figures. Manipulating figures like Yanukovych is seen as part of the ideological struggle over Ukraine’s future path.
