EUROPEAN INTEGRATION OF UKRAINE: POLITICAL AND SECURITY DIMENSION

Abstract

The article examines the problems and prospects of the European integration of Ukraine. The topic of European integration of Ukraine is particularly relevant for scientists, politicians and the public, because in 2022 a new stage in relations with the EU began. Ukraine acquired the status of a candidate for joining the EU, which outlined the prospects for joining the European community, contributed to further reforms, became an incentive for the authorities and citizens of the country, and a positive signal for European and global investors. After gaining independence, Ukraine took a course towards European value orientations, because Europeanness is characteristic of Ukraine historically, geographically, and mentally. Ukrainians defended the European vector of development during the Revolution of Dignity, and by repelling Russian military aggression since the beginning of the Russian invasion. And now the European integration of Ukraine is taking place in conditions of large-scale Russian intervention. During the war, Ukrainians defend the European path of development of our country, unite the Ukrainian nation and strengthen public support for the movement towards the EU. The unique character of the experience of European integration of Ukraine in the conditions of war is highlighted. After all, by resisting the large-scale armed Russian intervention, suffering from huge human, financial and economic losses, the country acquired the status of a candidate for EU membership, continues European integration in various areas, deepens partnership with the EU in sectoral areas, implements the recommendations of the European Commission and puts into practice provisions of the Association Agreements. The article examines the intensification of bilateral relations, the policy of Brussels towards Ukraine, which is gaining new vectors. Approaches and priorities in the field of security are being reviewed, because Ukraine suffered colossal human, financial and economic losses in the war. In addition, the article develops the basis for joint opposition to the continental expansion of Russia and political solidarity as well as military, financial and economic support of Ukraine. Special attention is paid to the analysis of the features of obtaining the status of a candidate for EU accession by Ukraine in 2022. An analysis of the report on Ukraine published by the European Commission in November 2023 and the recommendation to the European Council to start negotiations with Ukraine on membership in the European Union were also carried out.