William MILLER: “Ukraine is showing the best form of democracy in the world”
William Miller, who was the second US ambassador to Ukraine since our country declared its independence, arrived in Kyiv to take part in the international forum “Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic Future.” He often visits Ukraine to talk with politicians and top leaders, and it is always interesting to listen to his vision of Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic future. Is Ukraine becoming more democratic? Why does Ukraine need a new election? In what way is the US influencing Ukraine’s domestic policy? The ex-ambassador answers these and other questions in an exclusive interview with The Day .
“The most important problem today is the future of Ukraine. Ukraine is by definition part of Europe. This is not only a geographical but also an ideological and historical factor. The real question is what kind of European country Ukraine should be. I would say that the current political struggle, the conflict between economic ideologies in Ukraine, will determine the type of country. Moreover, Ukraine should determine this by itself — exclusively by Ukrainian, not European, standards. This is the way Ukraine will identify itself.
“I think the greatest problem today is the extent to which the government is adequately meeting the people’s needs. There was a link between the government and the people during the 2004 Orange Revolution. Then this link was broken. So the new elections offer a chance to restore the link between the desires of the common people and politicians. What kind of economic model will Ukraine have? Will it resemble the Swedish, Norwegian, Spanish, Portuguese, or Swiss model? This is Ukraine’s internal matter.
“In addition, any civilized government should find a balance between those who own enormous wealth and the poor. I think that the current conflict between those who acquired and amassed riches in the first years of independence and those who are not rich is the main problem. Social justice, social infrastructure, concern for future generations and their education, public health, and care for the elderly are very important issues. The Constitution managed to establish a reasonable framework, but no institutions have been set up to put it into practice. I think this is the essence of the conflict.”
Do you see any political will on the part of the Ukrainian political leadership, especially the parliamentary speaker, to settle the political crisis by way of elections? Can Oleksandr Moroz somehow prevent them?
“Yes, I can see this will. As for Moroz, I do not think he can thwart the elections because the main factions agreed to hold early elections. I believe that politicians should enjoy legitimacy given to them by the people. It is an absolute and fundamental requirement that people must extend legitimacy to their government. This is the chief problem.”
You said Ukraine is part of Europe. Is it really necessary for European and Euro-Atlantic integration to be closely linked?
“No, it is not necessary. We are a single world in reality. People travel and exchange education, international business ties are becoming natural. Americans have great affection and sincere feelings towards Ukrainians. President Bill Clinton did too. Many people also expressed great admiration for Ukraine during the Maidan times. And this will never be lost because it was a great moment in civilization.”
You often visit Ukraine. What interests you about our country?
“I visit Ukraine several times a year to see my friends, listen to music, see a ballet, and go to the theater. I can really see positive changes. Negative changes are temporary, and you will be able to overcome them.”
Can you say what role the US could have played, but didn’t, in promoting Ukrainian democracy?
“I think Ukraine is showing the best form of democracy in the world. In 2004 people said bluntly to their leaders: we want changes so that there will be no corruption and criminals will be sent to jail. People openly expressed their desires. This is direct democracy of the most perfect form. And, undoubtedly, this was an inspiration for the world.”
But this did not happen.
“Right, it did not happen at the time. But this is a standard to adhere to. And everything that is not close to it is considered inadequate. I still believe that Ukrainians have clearly stated what they want.”
Some Russian politicians, as well as leaders of some political parties in Ukraine, are saying that the US has been interfering in Ukraine’s internal affairs and leading Kyiv by the nose. Are there any grounds for such accusations?
“No, there aren’t. If friendship and affection are interference, then we can talk about interference. We sympathize with Ukraine and are interested in being friendly with it. I think Ukraine is a great country. So the Ukrainian people are entitled to any kind of help in order to build the future that they deserve.”
