| Relations between Russia and Ukraine: a New Era Must Begin. August 11, 2009 В отношениях России и Украины должны наступить новые времена. 11 августа 2009 года PRESIDENT OF RUSSIA DMITRY MEDVEDEV: A few days ago, I sent a letter to the President of Ukraine. It was not an ordinary document, I should say, as it contains a number of complex and unflattering characteristics of the actions by the top political leadership of Ukraine. In my todays address I would like to explain the reasons behind my step. There has been public concern in both Ukraine and Russia of late over the state of our bilateral relations. Ukrainian politicians themselves have admitted that relations are at an extremely low point today, and it is hard not to agree. The strain in relations between our countries has indeed hit unprecedented levels. I have on many occasions stated that Russia seeks to be a predictable, strong and comfortable partner for its neighbours, all the more so for a country with which we share common historical and cultural roots. We are more than just neighbours; our ties are those of brothers. Nikolai Gogol, the great writer and son of both Ukrainian and Russian peoples, said, There are no bonds more sacred than the bonds of brotherhood. As we celebrate the 200th anniversary of Gogols birth, we remember these words once again. These celebrations are yet another vivid illustration of our peoples spiritual closeness. Set against this background, the difficult to say the least ... |
