Merkel to try to pull Yanukovych out of Russia orbit, expert says

“Of course, the regrettable incident with Lange [a German expert who was banned entry in Ukraine for his criticism of the Ukrainian regime] will loom over the talks. If Yanukovych fails to make a breakthrough in his relationships with the West, it will be primarily due to the Lange incident,” the expert says.

The visit is aimed to balance Russia’s influence on the Ukrainian politics with Western influence, not via the USA and NATO, but via the EU undisputed leader Germany, he says.

“Basically, Germany is also after improving relations with Ukraine in the economy and politics. Germany is implementing its own eastern policy, and is viewing with concern how Ukraine is being dragged into the Moscow orbit, Horbach notes.

“Merkel will throw Yanukovych a lifeline he can use (if he is able to do this) to get himself out of the Russian quagmire, that is dependence on Russia,” he says.

Germany can well become Ukraine’s strategic partner in the EU, Horbach sums up.

Meanwhile, Ukraine Ambassador in Germany Oleksandr Chaly told ZIK Aug. 27 that Pres Yanukovych’s visit won’t be a picnic.

It will be a difficult visit because it will be clouded by the Lange incident, the diplomat forecast.

“I am absolutely convinced that both Germany and Ukraine are interested to strengthen their relationship and develop trade and cooperation. I believe, the links between our countries will become stronger after the visit by Pres Yanukovych,” he said.