Commemorating the tenth anniversary of ten - mostly - Eastern European states joing the EU in 2004, Mr. Erik Berglof wants to point out, "what the new normal has meant" for these countries, and "what it could mean for Ukraine". The "new normal" for them were investment, market economy, growth and prosperity. Yet it was a long way before they could bask in success.

Berglof also says: "Ukraine is now venturing down this path – without the promise of full accession". It all depends on whether Ukraine will fulfil the requirements for a EU membership. Nevertheless with the signing of the association agreement in Brussels by Ukraine's interim government in March, which coincided with Putin's ceremony in Moscow of formally annexing Crimea, the people of Ukraine had shown their willingness to forge closer ties to the EU and their aspirations to live in a country governed by values, by democracy and the rule of law.

Ukraine's "path" will not be different from Poland's and it will have to reduce its energy dependence on Russia and overcome the woes of bribery, cronyism, and nepotism - the first tremendous step for Ukraine to achieve its ultimate goal, as a full-fledged member. It is a country abundant with both natural and human resources. If Ukrainians are determined to go through this "transformational" process, their efforts will one day bear fruit.

Does Europe need a "new normal" after Russia's annexation of Crimea and the political turmoil that unfolds in Eastern Ukraine, Mr. Berglof? Europe may no longer be the same after the dramatic events in recent months. What will happen to Ukraine is unpredictable. Likewise is the question, how shall we deal with Russia? Some people say the "new normal" will be to deal with current situations rather than lamenting what had taken place. Others ask, whether allowing the violation of international law and turning a blind eye to it, is now Europe's "new normal"?

The best way to contain Russia is to impose real economic leverage. Yet it is a double-edged sword, that cuts both ways. Berglof is not alone, when he believes that "sanctions targeting Russia’s floundering economy", would have boomerang effect, if "revived trade ties are becoming a source of vulnerability" for Russia's trading partners in Europe. It explains why Putin feels confident, that he can get away with impunity.



