Abstract

Although far from being a supporter of Russian officialdom, in the present article the author will defend a position of dissent in relation to Maidan. In his view, the problem with Maidan is its lack of dialogue, overt or covert appeal to force, disregard for the fragility of Ukraine as a whole, and rejection of Ukraine's deep ties with Russia, which for Ukrainian culture are essential. According to this view, the phenomenon of Maidan, and the subsequent course of events, cannot be made to fit the Procrustean bed of preformed ideological stereotypes. Therefore, the current crisis in Ukraine and surrounding areas requires a more realistic approach, and a better understanding among the parties involved on the basis of fundamental human values. If realized, such an understanding could be a profound historical outcome of the current crisis.