The historical context of the development of Ukraine's relations with the countries of the Middle East

Abstract

The study of Ukraine's foreign policy in the Middle East should be based on various theoretical concepts and methodological approaches. One of the key ones is the neorealist approach, which emphasizes the balance of power, national interests, and state priorities in foreign policy. In the context of Ukraine's foreign policy in the Middle East, a realistic approach assumes that the key motive for Kyiv's actions is to ensure national security and preserve state sovereignty in the complex geopolitical environment of the region. Ukraine, as a relatively small state, is forced to maneuver between the influences of major regional players - Russia, Turkey, Iran, etc. - and look for opportunities to realize its interests. At the same time, Kyiv must take into account the balance of power in the region, the possibility of increasing its own influence and preventing threats to its security.