Prospects for EAEU Members' Cooperation with Crimea Following Its Disputed Accession to the Russian Federation

Keywords:

Abstract:

This study examines the status of the Crimean Peninsula within the frameworks of international law and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) legal framework. The urgency of this issue is heightened by the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, which deepens the uncertainty surrounding Crimea’s status. Currently, Crimea remains a disputed territory, posing significant legal and political challenges. The central question of this study is whether Crimea, given its undefined status, can fully exercise the rights and privileges associated with EAEU membership. The study explores potential implications and possibilities for Crimea's integration into the EAEU. Through a detailed analysis of legal intricacies and international legal instruments, the article highlights specific features of the EAEU's legal landscape. Despite its annexed status, Crimea operates within the framework of both the Russian Federation and the EAEU. Member states maintain a delicate balance by engaging with Crimea under de facto recognition while avoiding international sanctions. This dual approach reflects the complexities of the situation. The practical value of this research lies in its potential to inform broader policy development regarding Crimea’s legal status amidst the ongoing conflict. By considering the impact of the current war, the study offers a timely and relevant analysis of the evolving geopolitical landscape and its effects on Crimea's legal standing.