A Constructivist Perspective: Russia’s Politics on Ukraine and Annexation of Crimea (2014)

Abstract

In the study, Russia’s relationship with Ukraine in terms of the annexation of Crimea is discussed using the Constructivist paradigm, which considers identity as the main motivation of states› behavior. Since Russia›s annexation of Crimea is due to the deterioration of Russia›s relations with Ukraine and Ukraine›s rapprochement with Western alliances, Russia›s relations with Ukraine were included in the study, and the annexation of Crimea is tried to be explained depending on these relations. On the issue of annexation, Russia strives not to be harmed its interests, which are based on its identity and tries to construct norms and create an appropriate discourse by emphasizing that Russia acts in accordance with international law. The case of Crimea is closely linked to Russia›s common history and culture with Ukraine, and the country›s mental codes, basic identity features that have existed for centuries.

Keywords

• Russia
• Constructivism
• the annexation of Crimea
• identity
• discourse
• norms

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