The Ukrainian crisis ” “in the global agenda

The tragedy in the sky over Ukraine is a typical example of what could happen by playing too much with the fire of nationalism, intransigence…namely, the fire of war. The Ukrainian crisis had already reached an international dimension, with the direct involvement of a world power such as Russia. Now it has finally attracted the attention of many European countries, which had cynically and hypocritically turned a blind eye, whilst struggling with their more or less stagnant national economies, while at the gates of Europe thousands of civilians continued loosing their lives in bloody conflicts, or in the attempt to flee from them. Unfortunately, as often happens in human matters, deep pain served as a wake-up call. An international inquiry will be needed to officially identify those responsible. However, the dynamic of the events is clear. It’s the result of a ruthless high-bidding game, whereby previously unknown non-governmental players were armed. As often happens in similar cases, such players risk escaping the control of their “masters” and cause unexpected damage. From a purely political perspective, an accident such as the shooting down of the Malaysian aircraft could occur when an international crisis is left to brew, without seeking a reasoned, definitive solution. Sooner or later something will go wrong. Over the past months Europe has played with the destiny of Ukraine, deceiving and fomenting the pro-Western factions of its public opinions without offering a concrete, serious solution. Moreover, Putin’s Russia used armed force and threats as regular foreign policy tools; it organized a veritable invasion in Crimea denying its own evident share of responsibility; it supported and armed Pro-Russian activist groups in eastern Ukraine. Many are now wondering what will happen next. Since the crisis has reached a fully international dimension, its solution depends even more on the coordination of internal and external players, which isn’t always an easy task. If Europe should recover from its political myopia and indifference it would play an important role in the conclusion of this crisis. It should be understood that in addition to the story of the crash there is also a political knot that needs to be untangled once and for all. Russia until now had been winning its game with Ukraine thanks to its ruthless lucidity. But it has fallen into deep waters after allegedly clear evidence was found that the missile was launched by pro-Russian activists, and thus there can be no more playing at the edges. Far-sighted, serious, non-arrogant diplomatic action is needed. Europe should understand once and for all that if it wants peace on its borders it has to spend. Unfortunately, the state budgets that have been European governments have been devoting all their energy to, will have to envision the ancient phenomenon of war. Moreover, Russia should exert its influence on Ukrainian separatists and engage in dialogue with Ukrainian president and with the West, putting its weapons back in the holster. Finally, the United States should exert pressure from a distance over all contenders, avoiding adventurous actions, without trying to corner Russia geopolitically by prospecting Ukraine’s admission to NATO.