Oleg Tsapko
PhD in History, Associate Professor, leading research fellow of the Department of History of the Newly Independent States, State Institution ‘Institute of World History of the NAS of Ukraine’
DOI:
Abstract. The article explores the key problems in shaping Ukraine’s new foreign policy strategy for cooperation with the states of Central Asia amid full-scale russian invasion. The author argues that given today’s complex threats and challenges, Central Asian countries are interested in strictly upholding international law and the UN Charter because international law itself is a certain safeguard against an aggressive and unpredictable Russian neighbour. This interest provides an ideological and values-based foundation for Ukraine’s future cooperation with those countries. The article asserts that the guiding principle of Ukraine’s updated approach to the Central Asian countries should be the restoration of the world order grounded in international law. Ukraine strives to build a system of international relations where security is ensured for all states, not just a selected few, and where effective security mechanisms protect world peace and every state’s right to self-determination, while aggressors face real consequences.
The author emphasises that russian aggression can only be countered by actively promoting the truth about the war in Ukraine, fostering genuine partnerships, and engaging in equal, respectful dialogue grounded in mutual recognition of each state’s culture and sovereignty. At this stage, one of the most urgent priorities for Ukrainian diplomacy is to secure the support of Central Asian countries in Ukraine’s favour.
To implement this vision, the author proposes to develop a dedicated foreign policy document outlining Ukraine’s strategic framework and specific action plan for the engagement with the Central Asian region. These documents should aim to strengthen Ukraine’s presence in Central Asia.
Keywords: Ukraine, Central Asian states, foreign economic relations, strategy, cooperation, international treaties, russian federation.
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