Analysis of the state of Ukraine’s economic security: From external factors to rare-earth metals and political confrontation with the United States

Valerii Kononenko

Analysis of the state of Ukraine’s economic security: From external factors to rare-earth metals and political confrontation with the United States

Valerii Kononenko

Abstract

The relevance of this study stems from the ongoing transformation of global security dynamics, intensified by military conflicts, economic dependencies, and geopolitical realignments. The study aimed to explore the impact of Ukraine’s geopolitical position and external influences on its national security, emphasising the role of economic security, military threats, and integration processes. The research employed a multidisciplinary approach, combining legal analysis, economic assessments, and geopolitical evaluations to provide a holistic understanding of the subject. The study adopted an interdisciplinary approach that integrated legal, economic, and geopolitical methods to examine Ukraine’s national security within the context of its geopolitical position and external influences, using system analysis to assess it as a multifaceted phenomenon, content analysis to study international legal documents, and forecasting to evaluate potential future threat scenarios while considering geopolitical trends and economic risks. Ukraine’s national security is significantly influenced by three main external factors: globalisation, the Russian-Ukrainian war, and European integration, while economic security is identified as a critically important component, with the country’s financial stability and industrial resilience directly linked to its ability to maintain sovereignty and democratic development. International legal procedures and diplomatic efforts are emphasised as key mechanisms for countering threats and ensuring territorial integrity. Ukraine’s natural resources hold strategic importance for global powers, attracting international interest while exposing the country to potential external interference, and its geopolitical position plays a pivotal role in national security, as its location between major centres of influence creates both opportunities and risks. The findings of this study offer practical value for policymakers and academic researchers, who can utilise the results to develop strategies for enhancing Ukraine’s national security, strengthening global diplomatic efforts, and guiding academic research on geopolitical and economic stability in the context of hybrid warfare and resource management

Keywords

national security; geopolitical situation; Russian-Ukrainian war; European integration; international law; territorial integrity; sanctions

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Suggested citation

Kononenko, V. (2025). Analysis of the state of Ukraine’s economic security: From external factors to rare-earth metals and political confrontation with the United States. Foreign Affairs, 34(2), 15-26. https://doi.org/10.59214/2663-2675.35(2).2025.15