By leveraging historical, cultural, and religious ties, Russia aims to deepen economic and trade relations and create political and economic dependence on the Balkans. This influence is achieved through various means, including soft power, financial incentives, and political pressing.
The Balkans face several sensitive issues, such as ethnic conflicts and the recognition of Kosovo as an independent state, which hinder regional cooperation and integration. Russia’s influence operations exacerbate these tensions and impede further integration into Western economic, political, and security structures.
The consequences of Russian influence in the Balkans are far-reaching. It not only exacerbates regional tensions but also poses challenges to Western integration efforts. Additionally, Russia’s involvement in crucial areas such as security, economy, trade, and energy significantly impacts the region’s stability and development. Understanding and addressing the consequences of Russian hybrid influence in the Balkans is essential to ensure the region’s long-term stability and progress.
Guests:
- Kateryna Shymkevych, Candidate of Historical Sciences, Expert of the Analytical Center for Balkan Studies
- Andriy Kryshtal, Sociologist, Expert of the Analytical Center for Balkan Studies
UKRAINE IN FLAMES project is created by Ukraine Crisis Media Center and NGO “Euroatlantic Course”. We are aiming at searching a loud support for Ukraine in the war started by Russia on the 24th of February 2022.
If you want to support Ukraine against Russian aggression, check the link with recommendations by Ukraine Crisis Media Center – https://uacrisis.org/en/help-ukraine.
NGO Euroatlantic Course collects donations to support Ukrainian Army and civilians – https://eac.org.ua/en/main-page/.
How you can help Ukraine against Russian aggression:
Come back alive – https://bit.ly/3Ct6O2L (works directly with the command and personnel of military units, purchasing infrared thermal imaging cameras, night vision goggles, hemostatics etc);
CO Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation – https://bit.ly/3Svas1G (purchases supplies for Ukrainian army, such as armor, ammunition, first-aid kits, cars and ATV, humanitarian aid for civilians, and food for animals);
UNITED 24 – https://bit.ly/3M2mXiT (launched by the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy as the main venue for collecting charitable donations in support of Ukraine. Funds will be transferred to the official accounts of the National Bank of Ukraine and allocated by assigned ministries to cover the most pressing needs)
Army SOS – https://bit.ly/3UYK168 (manages purchases of necessary ammunition, shields, intercommunication and reconnaissance facilities, etc. and delivers all goods directly);
Vostok SOS – https://bit.ly/3Ruut75 (raising funds for various needs of the army);
Phoenix Wings – https://bit.ly/3RvWSd0 (the appropriate equipment & uniform, personal non-lethal protection (vests, helmets), required treatment of the wounded soldiers, and repair of the buildings used by the army).
