Evidence 4.

“Russia-Ukraine Conflict”

Xavier Galindo García 2042595

Alba Helena Briceño Calderón 2048551

Isabella Hernández Treviño 2121972

Marijose Meléndez Cantú 1954167

Diego Villareal Martínez 2096219

Facultad de Ciencias Políticas y Relaciones Internacionales, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León

Introducción a las Relaciones Internacionales

Profesora: Patricia Rebeca Sepúlveda Chapa

Russia-Ukraine conflict

Analysing the most important actors

This conflict is not new!
Russia’s interests?
Why?
Who benefits?
Russia-Ukraine conflict
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine is a geopolitical crisis that has held the world's attention since its
inception in 2014. This standoff is centered on the Crimea region and parts of eastern Ukraine, but its
ramifications extend far beyond these borders. geographical. The situation has involved tensions between two
neighboring countries, triggered significant changes in international politics and had a lasting impact on security
in Europe.

This conflict has been characterized by a series of complex events, including Russia's annexation of Crimea, the
rise of separatist groups in eastern Ukraine, and attempts at resolution through diplomatic agreements, such as the
Minsk Agreements. In addition to political and military implications, the conflict has raised concerns about human
rights, national sovereignty, international recognition and relations between Russia, Ukraine and other global
actors, such as the European Union and the United States.
 Keyword Explanation

Anarchy Anarchy is a political philosophy that advocates the absence of central government and coercive authority,
promoting social organization based on self-management and voluntary cooperation between individuals and
communities. In the context of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, anarchy does not apply directly, as
both countries have centralized governments and are governed by different political systems. However, it is
important to note that anarchy and its principles can have an indirect impact on how the conflict is perceived
and resolved. For example:

1. Social movements: in Ukraine, during the conflict with Russia, there have been elements of social
movements that promote citizen participation and self-management in local decision-making. These
movements often advocate decentralization of power and direct community participation in local affairs. This
reflects some anarchist principles of horizontal decision-making and autonomy.

2. International solidarity: In some anarchist circles, international solidarity and opposition to war and military
aggression are promoted. Some anarchists and related groups may express solidarity with the victims of
conflict and advocate peaceful and diplomatic solutions.

3. Criticism of the state and authoritarianism: Anarchists tend to be critical of the state and authoritarian
institutions. Therefore, they may point to and condemn the authoritarian actions of any party involved in the
conflict, be it Russia, Ukraine, or other foreign powers.

In summary, although anarchy does not apply directly to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine due to the
presence of centralized governments on both sides, anarchist principles can influence how some individuals
and social movements respond to the conflict and advocate solutions based on self-management, voluntary
cooperation, and opposition to authoritarianism.
Sovereignty Sovereignty is a fundamental principle of international law that refers to the right of a state to exercise authority and
control over its territory and internal affairs without external interference. In the conflict between Russia and
Ukraine, the issue of sovereignty has become central and controversial. In this conflict sovereignty applies in the
following ways:

1.Crimea: One of the most prominent aspects of the conflict was Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014. Ukraine
considers Crimea as part of its territory and therefore argues that Russia violated its sovereignty by taking control of
the peninsula. Russia, on the other hand, argues that the annexation was carried out as a result of a referendum in
Crimea and was legitimate. However, the international community, for the most part, does not recognize the
annexation and considers Crimea as Ukrainian territory.

2.Eastern regions of Ukraine: The conflict has also centered on Ukraine's eastern regions of Donetsk and Lugansk,
where Russian-backed autonomous entities have formed. Ukraine claims that these regions are part of its territory
and that Russian interference in the internal affairs of these areas is a violation of its sovereignty.

3. Foreign military assistance: Ukraine has accused Russia of providing military support to separatist groups in
eastern Ukraine. This foreign military interference is viewed by Ukraine as a violation of its sovereignty and an act
of aggression.

4. International recognition: The issue of sovereignty is also reflected in the international recognition of Ukraine as
an independent and sovereign state. Most countries and international organizations recognize Ukraine as an
independent and sovereign state, and have expressed support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, including Crimea.

In summary, the issue of sovereignty plays a key role in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as it involves
territorial disputes, control of specific regions, and interference in Ukraine's internal affairs. The lack of agreement
on the sovereignty of Crimea and eastern regions of Ukraine has been a major source of tension and conflict in the
region.
Recognition International recognition plays an important role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as it affects the position and legitimacy
of the actors involved in the conflict.

1.Recognition of Ukraine's sovereignty: Most countries and international organizations recognize Ukraine as an
independent and sovereign state with internationally recognized borders. This recognition is fundamental to Ukraine's
position in the conflict, as it supports its claim to territorial integrity, including Crimea and the eastern regions of Donetsk
and Lugansk.

2.Non-recognition of the annexation of Crimea: Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 has not been recognized by the
international community for the most part. Countries and international organizations consider the annexation illegal and
a violation of Ukraine's sovereignty. This has led to economic and diplomatic sanctions against Russia by several
countries and organizations, including the European Union and the United States.

3. Support for Ukraine: Many countries, especially in the West, have expressed support for Ukraine in the conflict. They
have provided economic, political and military assistance to Ukraine in its fight against Russian-backed separatist
forces in the east of the country. Recognition of Ukraine as a sovereign nation is a key element in this international
support.

4. Diplomatic means and negotiations: Recognition of Ukraine as a legitimate party to the conflict is essential to
diplomatic negotiations and conflict resolution efforts. Peace agreements, such as the Minsk Agreements, involve
Ukraine, Russia and other international actors, and recognition of Ukraine's sovereignty is a fundamental principle in
these negotiations.

5. Participation in international organizations: Ukraine is a member of several international organizations, including the
United Nations and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Ukraine's recognition as an
independent state gives it a voice and a vote in these organizations, allowing it to seek international support and conflict
resolution through diplomatic channels.

In short, international recognition plays a significant role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict by supporting Ukraine's position
as an independent and sovereign state and rejecting Russia's annexation of Crimea. This recognition affects diplomacy,
sanctions, international support and conflict resolution efforts in the region.
Nacionalism The issue of nationality plays a prominent role in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, especially in the context
of Crimea and the eastern regions of Donetsk and Lugansk. In Crimea, the majority of the population is ethnic
Russian, which has led Russia to argue that it is protecting the rights of Russian citizens living on the peninsula. On
the other hand, Ukraine considers the population of Crimea to be Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar, and claims that
Russia's annexation violates the rights of the ethnic Ukrainian and Tatar population. In the eastern regions of
Donetsk and Lugansk, there is also a significant ethnic Russian population, which has led Russia to justify its
support for separatist forces under the pretext of protecting ethnic Russians in those areas. This issue of nationality
has exacerbated ethnic and cultural tensions in the conflict and contributed to polarization.

Nationality is also reflected in the rhetoric used by both sides in the conflict. Both Ukraine and Russia have
employed nationality-based narratives to justify their actions and mobilize internal and external support. The
recognition of Ukrainian and Russian nationality has become a central theme in political and media rhetoric in the
conflict, which has influenced public perception and international opinion on the situation. In summary, the issue of
nationality plays a complex role in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, affecting the identity of the population
in the disputed regions and being used as a justification and mobilization tool by both sides in the conflict.

International Security International security plays a prominent role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as tensions in the region
have had a significant impact on stability and security in Eastern Europe. The conflict has led to a
number of international security implications, including the violation of Ukraine's territorial integrity,
population displacement, militarization of the region, and deterioration of relations between Russia
and the West. Russia's annexation of Crimea and the conflict in eastern Ukraine have led to a
series of economic sanctions and diplomatic measures by the West, contributing to strained
international relations. In addition, the presence of Russian troops in Crimea and eastern Ukraine
has increased concerns about stability in Eastern Europe and has led to a reassessment of the
region's security in the broader context of NATO and European security. In summary, international
security is affected by the Russia-Ukraine conflict due to its geopolitical ramifications and impact on
stability in Eastern Europe, which has led to increased attention to security in the region and
strengthened cooperation among NATO allies to address the situation.
Nacional Interest National interest plays a crucial role in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as both countries seek to defend
what they see as their national interests in the region. For Russia, its national interest in the conflict centers on
maintaining its influence in its "backyard" and protecting the Russian-speaking population in Ukraine and the
Crimea region. Russia considers Ukraine to be an integral part of its sphere of influence and sees NATO and the
European Union as threats to its security and strategic position in Eastern Europe. Therefore, Russia has sought to
preserve its access to the Black Sea and maintain significant influence in Ukraine through backing separatist
groups in eastern Ukraine and the annexation of Crimea.

For its part, Ukraine seeks to protect its territorial integrity and its right to determine its own political and economic
course. For Ukraine, its national interest lies in consolidating its independence, moving away from Russian
influence and seeking closer integration with the West, including the European Union and NATO. The Ukrainian
government sees the conflict as a challenge to its sovereignty and a struggle for its national identity and its right to
decide its political future without outside interference. In this sense, Ukraine has sought international support to
resist Russian pressure and advance its Western aspirations.

In short, the national interest in the Russia-Ukraine conflict is reflected in the policies and actions of both countries,
with Russia seeking to protect its influence in the region and Ukraine defending its independence and its desire for
greater Western integration. This struggle for national interests has contributed to the prolongation and complexity
of the conflict in the region.

NATO NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) has played an important role in the Russia-Ukraine
conflict by providing political and security support to Ukraine. NATO has condemned Russia's
annexation of Crimea and expressed support for Ukraine's territorial integrity. In addition, the
Alliance has provided technical and training assistance to Ukrainian forces, as well as reinforced its
presence in Eastern Europe by deploying troops in member countries close to Ukraine, such as
Poland and the Baltic States, to deter any Russian aggression in the region. NATO has also
maintained a dialogue with Russia in an effort to reduce tension and seek a diplomatic solution to
the conflict, although relations between the Alliance and Russia have been strained due to the
conflict in Ukraine. In short, NATO has played an important role in supporting Ukraine and
maintaining stability in Eastern Europe in the context of the conflict with Russia.
Internacional Law International law has played a key role in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, especially with regard to the
annexation of Crimea. The international community, for the most part, has not recognized Russia's annexation of
Crimea as legitimate. The annexation was strongly condemned by the United Nations General Assembly in a
resolution affirming Ukraine's territorial integrity. In addition, the International Court of Justice issued an advisory
opinion stating that the annexation of Crimea violated international law. These actions and pronouncements
underscore the importance of international law in preserving the territorial integrity and sovereignty of states in the
conflict.

In the context of the conflict in eastern Ukraine, efforts have been made to seek a peaceful and lasting solution in
accordance with the norms of international law. The Minsk Agreements, mediated by the Organization for Security
and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), have been an attempt to resolve the conflict and have been supported by a
number of states and international organizations. However, implementation of these agreements has been
problematic, and the ongoing conflict remains a major concern in the region. In summary, international law has
been an important pillar in the response to the annexation of Crimea and in efforts to resolve the conflict in eastern
Ukraine, although challenges in the implementation and enforcement of the norms of international law have
persisted in the conflict.

Internacional International organizations, such as the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe
Organizations (OSCE) and the United Nations, have played an important role in the conflict between Russia and
Ukraine. The OSCE has been involved in mediating and monitoring the Minsk Agreements, which
seek a peaceful solution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine. Through its observer missions on the
ground, the OSCE has monitored the ceasefire and assisted in facilitating talks between the parties
to the conflict. The United Nations has also been involved in diplomacy and has expressed support
for Ukraine's territorial integrity, with the UN General Assembly condemning Russia's annexation of
Crimea. These international organizations have provided a forum for dialogue and mediation, as
well as promoted respect for international law in the conflict.
 Keyword Explanation

European Union The European Union (EU) has played a significant role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict through its political,
diplomatic and economic response. The EU has strongly condemned Russia's annexation of Crimea and
expressed strong support for Ukraine's territorial integrity. The EU has also imposed economic sanctions
against Russia in response to its involvement in the conflict, which has had an impact on the Russian
economy.

In addition, the EU has supported Ukraine by providing financial and technical assistance to help the
country with its political, economic and security reforms. The EU's Eastern Partnership, which includes
Ukraine, has established a closer relationship between Ukraine and the EU, facilitating cooperation in areas
such as trade, visa policy, and energy and security cooperation.

The EU has also been involved in diplomatic efforts to seek a solution to the conflict, including mediating the
Minsk Agreements, which seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine. Through its
diplomacy and targeted sanctions, the EU has sought to exert pressure on Russia to comply with its
obligations under international law and contribute to a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict. In
summary, the European Union has been an important actor in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine,
providing political, diplomatic and economic support to Ukraine, while seeking a peaceful resolution of the
conflict and respect for international law.

Hard power Hard power has been applied in the Russia-Ukraine conflict through a series of military and economic
actions. Russia has used military power in the 2014 annexation of Crimea and in its support of separatist
forces in eastern Ukraine by providing weapons and troops. In addition, Russia has used economic power
by imposing sanctions against Ukraine and cutting off natural gas supplies in energy disputes, which has
had a significant impact on the Ukrainian economy. For its part, Ukraine has sought to strengthen its military
capabilities through cooperation with Western countries and has sought economic and political support to
resist Russian pressure. These military and economic actions have contributed to the intensification and
prolongation of the conflict.
USSR The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) plays a historic role in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as
the legacy of the USSR continues to influence the relationship between the two countries. The USSR included both
Russia and Ukraine as member republics, and during the Soviet era, a common identity and economic and political
integration were fostered. However, there were also times of oppression and repression of Ukrainian culture and
Ukrainian resistance to Soviet rule. The collapse of the USSR in 1991 led to Ukrainian independence, but tensions
persisted due to the historical heritage and economic and cultural ties between the two countries. Russia's
annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the conflict in eastern Ukraine have been influenced by Russia's perception that
Ukraine was moving away from its influence and toward the West. In addition, the annexation of Crimea was seen
by many Ukrainians as a violation of their sovereignty and a reminder of the history of oppression under Soviet rule.
Therefore, the history of the USSR and its legacy continue to be an important background to the conflict between
Russia and Ukraine.

In short, the history of the USSR influences the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine through historical
tensions, the perception of Russian influence in Ukraine, and the reassertion of Ukrainian national identity. The
Soviet heritage is an underlying factor in the conflict and has contributed to the complexity of relations between the
two countries.

Referendum The use of referendums in the Russia-Ukraine conflict has been a controversial issue. In 2014, following Russia's
annexation of Crimea, a referendum was held in Crimea in which voters reportedly supported union with Russia.
However, this referendum was widely condemned by the international community, as it was held under Russian
military presence and under conditions that did not meet international standards of transparency and free choice.
The international community did not recognize the validity of this referendum and considers Crimea as part of
Ukraine.

The use of referendums in the conflict has also been an issue of concern in eastern Ukraine, where Russian-
backed separatist groups have organized local referendums to proclaim independence from Ukraine. These
referendums have also been widely questioned by the international community due to the circumstances in which
they were conducted and the lack of recognition as legitimate processes. In short, referendums in the Russia-
Ukraine conflict have been used in a controversial manner and are often considered illegitimate due to concerns
about their transparency and credibility, which has contributed to the tension and lack of resolution of the conflict.
Humanitarian corritor Humanitarian corridors are areas or routes established to allow the safe passage of humanitarian aid, civilians and
wounded in the midst of a conflict. In the context of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, humanitarian corridors
have been established on several occasions to allow the delivery of aid to conflict-affected areas in eastern
Ukraine. These corridors are agreed between the parties to the conflict, humanitarian organizations and
international mediators, such as the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Humanitarian
corridors are essential to ensure that civilians have access to food, medicine and other essential supplies in the
midst of a conflict that has caused significant displacement and humanitarian hardship in the region.

International Criminal The International Criminal Court (ICC) is an international court established to prosecute and try individuals for war
Court crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide when national courts are unable or unwilling to do so. In the Russia-
Ukraine conflict, the ICC has been closely monitoring the situation, particularly in relation to allegations of war
crimes and serious human rights violations in eastern Ukraine, where clashes have occurred between Ukrainian
forces and Russian-backed separatist groups. The ICC Prosecutor's Office has opened a preliminary examination
of the situation in Ukraine to determine whether opening a formal investigation is warranted.

Additionally, the International Criminal Court has also been examining Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea, in
response to a request from Ukraine. The ICC is investigating whether war crimes were committed in the context of
the annexation and occupation of Crimea, including allegations of persecution and discrimination against Crimean
Tatars. However, it is important to note that Russia is not a State Party to the ICC, so the Court does not have
automatic jurisdiction over Russian citizens, although it does have jurisdiction over crimes committed on the
territory of Ukraine, which is a State Party.

In summary, the International Criminal Court is involved in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine through its
preliminary examination of allegations of war crimes and human rights violations in eastern Ukraine, as well as its
investigation into the situation in Crimea. after annexation. The Court plays an important role in seeking justice and
accountability for alleged violations of international law in the region.
Democracy Democracy plays a significant role in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, especially regarding the legitimacy
of Ukraine's governments and democratic aspirations. The conflict arose in part due to then-Ukrainian President
Viktor Yanukovych's decision to suspend an association agreement with the European Union in 2013, sparking
mass protests known as the Euromaidan Revolution. These protests were based on the demand for greater
democracy, transparency and rapprochement with European institutions. The subsequent dismissal of Yanukovych
and the election of a new government in Ukraine were seen as a step towards consolidating democracy in the
country.

On the other hand, Russia has been criticized for its lack of democracy in the context of the conflict. The
annexation of Crimea and support for separatist groups in eastern Ukraine have been perceived as undemocratic
actions and violations of international law. The international community has questioned the legitimacy of the
elections in Crimea under Russian occupation and expressed concern about the repression of political opposition in
Russia. Additionally, the conflict in eastern Ukraine has led to accusations of human rights abuses by Russian-
backed separatist groups.

In short, democracy is reflected in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine through Ukraine's democratic
aspirations and criticism of Russia's lack of democracy and respect for international law. The promotion of
democracy and democratic values ​has been a central theme in the rhetoric and politics of the conflict and has
influenced the international perception of the parties involved.
 Ciudad de México, 6 de octubre del 2023

La secretaria de Relaciones Exteriores de los Estados Unidos Mexicanos exhorta esta carta al líder
de la Federación de Rusia, Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin a considerar los siguientes aspectos aunados
a la situación actual entre su país y Ucrania.
Teniendo en consideración las actuales sanciones por parte de distintos organismos internacionales
que se están llevando a cabo, tales como:
● El impedimento hacia el banco central de Rusia para que este mismo no pudiese utilizar
sus reservas de divisas en el extranjero.
● Sanciones al sector energético ruso, que es su principal motor económico.
● El cierre de el espacio aéreo a los aviones rusos, tanto comerciales como privados
● Entre otras sanciones impuestas por la Unión Europea para una intervención pacífica en el
estado.
El gobierno de México tiene en consideración los intereses compartidos entre la Federación de Rusia
y nuestro país, por lo cual lo invitamos a sopesar las siguientes alternativas para darle seguimiento
a sus actividades en su país vecino Ucrania.
● Retirar sus fuerzas armadas del territorio ucrananiano de manera pacífica con el fin de evitar
más daños.
● Considerar que no solo está afectando integridad económica de su país y el de Ucrania, sino
también creando una oposición a países vecinos y aliados a negarse a seguir haciendo
tratados comerciales.
● Si el conflicto se prolonga, tener factible negociar una división con el territorio Ucrananiano,
similar al caso de las dos Coreas. La parte extrema este de Ucrania podría convertirse en
"Ucrania del este" que se vea más afín al estado ruso.
● Llegar a un tratado de paz con Zelenski. El factor principal para hallar una solución es la
buena voluntad y le sugerimos una por su parte.
● Reactivar los acuerdos de Minsk.Revivir los acuerdos de Minsk ahora podría ser una solución
a esta crisis.

Estos son momentos cruciales, es necesario e imperativo brindar todo el apoyo posible a su país.
Esperamos que considere cuidadosamente nuestras alternativas y trabajemos juntos hacia un
objetivo común. Mediante la unidad y la colaboración se encuentra la clave para un futuro próspero
para todos.
Sin más por el momento le reiteramos nuestra más alta consideración

Atentamente

Oficina de relaciones exteriores

Evidence 4.
Essay + chart about actors in a conflict.

1. Write an introduction of 1-2 pages of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

2. Then, do some research about the chart I explained you.
3. At the end, write 1 page about an advise/recommendation you will give to Vladimir
Putin about this war (in a VERY diplomatic way) as Mexican government.