Why Russia’s Integration into the European Union Remains Unfeasible
The concept of Russia’s membership in the European Union (EU) is more of a political football than a realistic possibility. Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine and its aggressive stance towards European countries have significantly hindered its integration into the EU.
Understanding the Core Issue
The Western world, particularly the EU, has maintained a steadfast position against Russia's prospective membership. This is not because Russia lacks the interest, but rather because it faces substantial opposition from the West for its actions and policies.
The Misunderstanding of Russia’s Intentions
There is a misconception that Russia wants to join the EU and NATO to become a part of the Western world. The reality is far more complex. The Russian leadership's priorities lie elsewhere. Instead of adhering to the human rights standards demanded by the Communist system, they prefer a corrupt state that is disintegrating into local ethnicities and nationalities.
Consequences of Russia's Actions and Policies
Due to its illegal and senseless invasion of Ukraine, Russia has faced severe diplomatic and economic sanctions. It has been expelled from major international economic and collaborative forums, including the G7. Russian banks have been isolated from global financial systems, limiting its access to international finance. As long as Russia remains committed to this aggressive stance, it has no place in the International Community.
The EU's Criteria for Membership
The EU has a strict set of criteria for membership, which Russia fails to meet. These criteria include upholding democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law. Russia's war in Ukraine, its ongoing militarization, and its disregard for international norms all contribute to its inability to satisfy these conditions.
Russia's Long-Term Cold War Stance
Russia's continued refusal to end its war in Ukraine and its deliberate isolation from the Western world have only reinforced the notion that it is an 'inherently evil, aggressive, barbaric, and uncivilized state.' This makes the idea of EU membership even more implausible.
The United States' Perspective on the Conflict
The United States, too, has an interest in maintaining the conflict in Eastern Europe. The perception that Russia is acting as an enemy to the US military-industrial complex is not entirely unfounded. NATO expansion towards Russia's borders, the downing of a recreational plane, and the sabotage of critical infrastructure like the Nord Stream gas pipelines all point to the US's involvement in this geopolitical game.
The Future of Russian-EU Relations
Unless Russia withdraws from Ukraine, apologizes, and commits to non-aggression, it will continue to be excluded from the International Community and EU collaboration. While Russia's economic interests might suggest a willingness to join, the geopolitical calculus and the preferences of the US and its allies make this a distant possibility.
Conclusion
The reason Russia is not part of the EU is a multifaceted issue rooted in geopolitical tensions, military conflicts, and ideological differences. The war in Ukraine and Russia’s refusal to abide by international norms have sealed its fate for the foreseeable future.