To: Crossy who wrote (6745 ) 12/30/2004 7:53:03 PM From: Crossy Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 37387 re : UKRAINE update -------------------- Ok' this is I guess the most professional link I found on political commentary on the Ukraine. It's top notch and all translated into English. enjoy it ! very comprehensive..mirror-weekly.com an example: "Ukraine’s bid for membership in the European Union” may also make an indirect positive influence on bilateral relations between the Russian Federation and the European Union,” the UPI writes, citing Peter Lavell. “Ukraine’s accession to the EU can not happen without Russia’s participation in this process. Since the Ukrainian and Russian economies are tied very closely, Brussels, Kyiv, and Moscow will have to sit to one negotiating table. The Russian Federation does not need to join the EU, but it can strengthen its relations with this organization thanks to Ukraine <…> If Ukraine really aspires for the EU, it will be required to modernize its economy, take necessary measures, and reach certain agreements in protecting its trade contacts with Russia. Such measures and agreements would benefit all interested parties to this process, including Russia. Besides, they would help debunk the favorite theories of a large-scale geopolitical conspiracy.” ..... ..... What about Russian property and capital in Ukraine? - Nothing to worry about if the property was acquired legitimately. Yushchenko pledges to protect the rights of all proprietors, means to rely on heavy foreign investment, and never mentions the word “re-privatization”. But if someone launders dirty money, misuses budget funds, engages in illicit trade or political activities in Ukraine, he is fully liable under Ukrainian laws. ..... ..... very wise words indeed ! CROSSY