The Paradox of Ukrainian Lviv reveals the local and transnational forces behind the twentieth-century transformation of Lviv into a Soviet and Ukrainian urban center. Lviv's twentieth-century history was marked by violence, population changes, and fundamental transformation ethnically, linguistically, and in terms of its residents' self-perception. Against this background, Tarik Cyril Amar explains a striking paradox: Soviet rule, which came to Lviv in ruthless Stalinist shape and lasted for half a century, left behind the most Ukrainian version of the city in history. In reconstructing this dramatically profound change, Amar illuminates the historical background in present-day identities and tensions within Ukraine.

This book outlines the traditionally difficult relations between Poland and Ukraine and assesses the changes in the last decade, which have resulted in very constructive bilateral relations between the two states. The authors argue that the strengthening of bilateral ties bodes well for stability in Europe, and is a welcome development in the context of the integration process currently proceeding apace across the continent. Ironically, the very process of integration is having less than benign effects on Warsaw's relations with Kiev. Despite the best intentions of political elites in both countries, the conditions the EU requires of Poland will inevitably have a deleterious impact on relations with Ukraine, particularly in terms of cross-border trade and free movement of people, which is not desired by all Polish regions. The book thus explores how Warsaw and Kiev are attempting to balance EU and regional demands.

Ukrainians reemerged on Europe's political map in 1991 after more than 200 years of direct Russian rule. As there was no "liberation war" and "old regime" elites were not exiled or executed, the legacies of the past weigh-down particularly heavily. Political independence is not matched by economic, cultural and psychological independence. This book surveys the Ukrainian-EU relationship in light of the legacies of Russian rule. It examines interrelationships between identities, loyalties and political/cultural orientations, reviews policies, and identifies salient forces and trends.