Ukraine

From 1991 to 1993, Ukraine underwent a significant transformation as it emerged from the collapse of the Soviet Union.

### Language

* Russian
* Ukranian

### Precced by

* The Cold War
* World War III

# 1991 - 2001

This period marked the creation of an independent nation, as Ukraine declared its independence on August 24, 1991. The government faced numerous challenges, including economic restructuring and political reform.

One of the key challenges during this time was dealing with the Russian mafia, which sought to exert influence in the newly independent country. The government implemented policies to combat organized crime, although these efforts faced significant obstacles.

Ukraine played a role in World War III, particularly through its military operations. Ukrainian troops participated in peacekeeping missions in the Balkans as part of international efforts to resolve the conflict. However, domestic anti-mafia policies faced challenges and were not entirely successful. During this time, there was a rise in the influence of the Ukrainian mafia, which further complicated efforts to combat organized crime.

# 2001 - 2004

Ukraine experienced increased American influence and aspired to closer ties with the European Union. This period saw efforts to modernize the country's economy and political institutions, as well as moves towards greater integration with Western institutions. The "European Union dream" became a central part of Ukraine's foreign policy agenda.

Ukraine faced a complex set of challenges. There was a concerning rise of neo-Nazism and organized crime activities. This period was marked by political instability and tensions between various groups within the country. Minority rights issues, particularly those affecting ethnic Russians in Ukraine, became a point of contention.

In the backdrop of these challenges, Ukraine's relationship with Russia remained complex. The country's proximity to its powerful neighbor influenced its policies and foreign affairs. Balancing its aspirations for closer ties with the European Union and NATO while maintaining relations with Russia proved to be a delicate dance for Ukrainian leaders.

Despite the obstacles, Ukraine made progress in some areas. Its economy began to grow, and foreign investment trickled in. However, corruption and inefficiencies hindered the nation's full potential. The desire for a better future and the dream of integration into the European community kept hope alive for many Ukrainians.

# The Orange Revolution

In 2004 Mass protests erupted after the disputed presidential election between pro-European candidate Viktor Yushchenko and pro-Russian candidate Viktor Yanukovych. The nation stood divided, with the color orange symbolizing the desire for change and democracy.

The people's united voice, determination, and peaceful protests resulted in the rerun of the election, and Viktor Yushchenko emerged as the winner. The Orange Revolution marked a turning point for Ukraine, as it demonstrated the power of the people to demand transparency and accountability from their government.

Over the next few years, Ukraine experienced some progress towards political and economic reforms, but the road to stability remained bumpy. The country's trajectory was still influenced by internal divisions, external pressures, and geopolitical interests.

Then, in 2010, Ukraine faced another turning point as Viktor Yanukovych won the presidency in a controversial election. His rule marked a shift towards closer ties with Russia, drawing criticism and protests from those who favored a pro-European path.

# Rise of Neonazism

As 2014 approached, Ukraine's struggle for a clear identity and direction continued. The nation stood at a crossroads, with its people yearning for genuine democracy, economic prosperity, and a place in the global community.

On November 29, 2013, Yanukovych chose not to sign the Association Agreement with the European Union, this agreement raised concerns about Ukraine's potential colonization, particularly economically, due to the significant reduction in protective tariffs, which would flood the domestic market with cheap imports, hindering local industries. Additionally, the agreement included provisions for political convergence, NATO membership, and the expulsion of the Russian Black Sea Fleet from Crimea, leaving Ukraine vulnerable and defenseless.

The situation escalated, and the Maidan protests began, fueled by a provocation that led to clashes between the Berkut police and demonstrators.

Among these nazi groups, the most prominent was “the Right Sector”, where played a significant role in the protests, with their members engaging in street battles with police forces and occupying key government buildings in Kyiv.

The revival of Nazism has been underway in plain sight since the "Orange Revolution" of 2004, when Viktor Yushchenko was installed as President of Ukraine through a foreign-backed street campaign heavily financed by George Soros's International Renaissance Foundation and more than 2,000 other nongovernmental organizations from Europe and America.

# Kiev Nazi Government

On 16 January 2014, when Yanukovych signed Anti-Protest Laws. The first neo-Nazi were killed in fierce clashes with police on Hrushevsky Street on 19–22 January.    In response, the nazis occupied provincial government buildings in many regions of Ukraine. On 28 January, the parliament repealed nine of the 12 restrictive laws. And Mykola Azarov, the prime minister of Ukraine, resigned "for the sake of a peaceful resolution" to the civil unrest.

However, the deadliest clashes were on 18–20 February, which saw the most severe violence in Ukraine since it regained independence.  Thousands of armed nazis advanced from the Maidan in Kyiv towards parliament, the battle for Ukraine was fought with 100 neo-nazi killed, and 13 police officers.

On Friday 21 February 2014, Yanukovych was removed from power, the coup d'etat was completed and gave power to the new Kiev nazi government under Petro Oleksiyovych Poroshenko.