ABSTRACT
In sorting out the advantages and disadvantages of each option, as well as considering whether the United States should favor or deliberately avoid favoring either one, there is merit in reflecting on what would be in the best economic interests of Russia and Ukraine. Contrary to much of the conventional wisdom, separate and sovereign economic status would be economically preferable for both republics. In sorting out the advantages and disadvantages of each option, as well as considering whether the United States should favor or deliberately avoid favoring either one, there is merit in reflecting on what would be in the best economic interests of Russia and Ukraine. Contrary to much of the conventional wisdom, separate and sovereign economic status would be economically preferable for both republics. To be sure, numerous economic arguments have been advanced against separation and in favor of close linkage between Ukraine and Russia. But these arguments are unconvincing.
