LEGAL DYNAMICS IN EU-UKRAINE RELATIONS

STRENGTHENED SUPPORT ON THE JOURNEY FROM THE EASTERN PARTNERSHIP COUNTRY TO THE EU CANDIDATE COUNTRY IN THE CONTEXT OF RUSSIAN INVASION

Abstract

The article examines the changing relations between Ukraine and the European Union in light of the increased EU backing of Ukraine after the Russian invasion. It argues that Ukraine's steadfast pro-EU stance has intensified in response to many challenges caused by Russian actions in that country, resulting in a noteworthy increase in legal backing from the EU. The qualitative research method is used to explore the EU-Ukraine relationship through historical context, official documents, and expert analysis. It starts by setting the historical background of Ukraine's ties with the EU, highlighting the key documents and events, and tracking the advancement of Ukraine's pro-European stance. The main emphasis is on how the Russian actions in Ukraine, starting with the annexation of Crimea, backing of separatists in eastern Ukraine, and finally, the invasion, changed relations between the EU and Ukraine. This entails estimating how Ukraine's adherence to EU values and legal standards has changed in response to Russia's gradually intensifying actions in Ukraine. Also, it involves an analysis of varied aspects of the EU's assistance mechanisms and tools used by the EU to strengthen its backing for Ukraine, emphasising the reciprocal nature of their legal dynamics. The article concludes by examining Ukraine's path towards EU membership and the criteria and legal requirements that Ukraine has to meet. This provides insights into the legal dynamics shaping EU-Ukraine relations in the context of intense external pressures.