The paths of these three countries and nations have criss-crossed many times. At first, a number of tribes were united into so-called Kievan Rus. Today's Ukrainian capital, Kiev, became the "mother of the Russian cities," but the period of feudal upheaval altered the situation. Several countries appeared on Eastern Slav territory, and history reunited them - for awhile. But things did not turn as planned.

The divisions were obvious and remained even as Russia, Ukraine and Belarus became individual republics within the whole. For a long time, they were considered similar nations, and these people were generically referred to as Russians. This irritated many, of course: not all Ukrainians and Bela­rusians want to be regarded as a part of the Russian people. The problem lies in the fact that historically they were, but today they are separate.

Many in the West see Eastern Slavs as the same entity. I mean this not politically, but rather spiritually. The stereotypes about Russians are often applied to Ukrainians and Bela­rusians too.

Generally speaking, the three na­tions resemble each other in appearance, way of thinking, traditions and beliefs; Eastern Slavs have experienced difficulties and successes together. And while they were once eager to help each other whenever it was necessary, today presents a different situation.

The question of self-determination rises and demands a concrete answer. Modern borders separate nations, but who may say for sure that they are right? The concrete dividing line amy not always be accurate: on the one hand there is a geographic factor, on the other a cultural one. Cultural unity often means there should be the unification of a monocultural nation. But today's Ukraine doesn't represent this principle: while its Eastern part shows traditional Russian roots, the Western one gravitates towards Europe.

But do the Ukrainian people want to be more Russian or more western? The answer for its government is to deny or to weaken Russian influence in all possible ways. Thus, government officials in today's Ukraine strive to reject the Russian language both in official ceremonies and in the cultural life of the country, such as at the cinema or in the halls of education.

But the nation as a whole is not so sure. Many Ukrainian cities and regions want a stronger bond with Russia, but this tendency breaks the sanctity of the county's sovereignty. Once it was said that until Ukraine is regarded as a part of Russia, temporarily separated, it would never be taken seriously. Such ideas help to explain Ukraine's desire to back its native traditions. There evolved a strong desire to escape from the influence of the biggest country in the world, which happens to be Ukrain'es very influential brother.

Russian people are observing this situation with some condescension: "Do what you want, but the task of changing the situation is beyond you." Plus there is an undercurrent of dissatisfaction, as we are people of common blood. Some of my relatives live in Ukraine and Belarus and they admit membership of these nations. But they speak Russian and follow the customs. I live in Moscow and have the roots of these three Slavic branches, but I certainly don't think I am a foreigner in Russia - it is common to have such origins. Despite their desire to separate from Russia, I don't feel that I am abroad while in Crimea, for example.

The necessity of being separate seems obvious. But it is a difficult task. While implementing it, close ties and intimate relationships may appear to be on the point of collapse. So, we must think twice about what we wish to be: friends or foes.