Publication

This publication discusses the political consequences and broader implications of an aviation accident at an air show in Ukraine. The author argues that aside from damaging public confidence in the armed forces, the response from President Leonid Kuchma has backfired. His sacking of various military leaders has provoked a united response from the opposition and assertive reaction from the armed forces, an institution usually known for its deference to presidential authority. The publication concludes that the Lviv tragedy is likely to do greater damage to the reputation of the president than the armed forces.