Germany says rebels used Ukranian missile to down MH17 passenger plane

[karynnj]

50. This ignores that both Ukrainian parties had run on working for this EU relationship

That relationship did not preclude Ukraine having ties to both sides. In fact concurrent to the very beginning of the Ukraine crisis, this is what Secretary Kerry called for in Moldova where Russia had "punished" them for ties with the west by banning their wine from Russia.

These comments actually sound like what you were recommending for Ukraine becoming a bridge between east and west.

" “We have been very clear with the Russians that we don't see any need to see the decision of Moldova and Georgia to initial agreements with the EU as a zero-sum game, and that we think that kind of play is self-defeating,” the official said.

“If Russia's neighbors become richer and more prosperous as a result of having visa liberalization to the European Union and increased trade, they are more able to buy more things from Russia as well, and they are more stable on Russia's periphery.”
http://www.voanews.com/content/reu-kerry-visits-western-leaning-moldova-to-show-support/1803456.html

In fact, it was RUSSIA's push that led to the pro Russian President of Ukraine to step back from an agreement that he had been for when he ran for President. You could argue that Russia did not want Ukraine to be a "bridge", but rather a buffer state that was 100% aligned with them.

One question for you would be if Ukraine signing an agreement with the EU -- not NATO - that reduced trade barriers with Europe was making Ukraine the bridge that you support --- or a step too far -- clearly the position of Russia.

(Side question - Do you agree that Russia acted vindictively in the case of Moldova? )