Proceedings of the VII International Conference on European Dimensions of Sustainable Development

Russian aggression against Ukraine has become a critical turning point in the transformation of European political strategy and the global security architecture. The shift toward supporting Ukrainian sovereignty is driven not only by ethical considerations but also by the recognition of Ukraine’s strategic importance as a link between the West and the post-Soviet space. This paper analyzes the historical context, the evolution of Western geopolitical thought regarding Ukraine, and the current challenges facing a unified and consistent Western strategy. The study emphasizes Ukraine's role not merely as a recipient of international support, but as an equal partner in shaping a new European and global order based on democratic values and resistance to authoritarian revisionism.