Economic Interdependence and Peace

This thesis deals with the theory of economic interdependence. It is based on the realistic approach which states that high levels of mutual trade lead to a conflict. This hypothesis is being tested on the Russia-Ukraine conflict that erupted by the end of 2013. Additionally, the thesis examines whether the conflict is caused by economic or rather political-related incentives. The theoretical part consists of realistic and liberalistic approaches towards economic interdependence. The empirical part of the study deals with the analysis of Russian and Ukrainian economy and relations between Russia, Ukraine and the European Union. The last chapter is dedicated to the comparison of the war in Georgia with the Russia-Ukraine conflict