Ukraine could have got privileges from Russia in return for waiving NATO

16.04.2010 Ukraine refused to join the North Atlantic alliance (NATO) without any compensation from Russia, reports Obozrevatel citing Alexander Sushko, scientific director of Euro-Atlantic Cooperation Institute.

The expert said he was anxious not so much about "Ukraine in such easy manner renounced claims to join the Alliance" but about the fact that the country did it for free. "Ukraine's non-entry to NATO is a strategic matter for Russia, the issue No. 1", reminded Mr. Sushko.

According to the expert, "even if you trade national interests, you'd better have something instead". As for Sushko, in exchange for refusal of NATO membership, Ukraine could have claimed "privileges from Russia in critical issues"; for instance, abandonment of intentions to prolong Black Sea Fleet (BSF) deployment term. "In this case the exchange would be even", he added.

"It's not the first Ukrainian "gift" to Russia. With that, Russia's response is considerably lower", pointed out the expert.

Recall that meeting with Dirk Brengelmann, NATO Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Security Policy on Apr 8, Ukrainian foreign minister Konstantin Grischenko confirmed Ukraine's interest in further development of partnership relations and pragmatic cooperation with NATO.