was there a presidential coup in ukraine in 2014. define a coup
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The situation in Ukraine in 2014 is often referred to as a “revolution” or “political crisis” rather than a “coup,” although there are elements that can resemble aspects of a coup. Here’s some context to clarify the situation and define what a coup is:
Definition of a Coup:
A coup d’état (commonly referred to as a “coup”) is the sudden, illegal overthrow of a government, often by a small group of people within the existing state structure, such as the military or political elites. It typically involves the use of force or the threat of force to seize control and replace the leadership.
What Happened in Ukraine in 2014?
In 2014, Ukraine experienced a significant political crisis that led to the removal of then-President Viktor Yanukovych. Here’s a brief breakdown:
- Euromaidan Protests (2013–2014): In late 2013, protests erupted across Ukraine, especially in the capital Kyiv, after President Yanukovych decided to suspend an association agreement with the European Union and instead pursue closer ties with Russia. The protests, known as the Euromaidan movement, were initially peaceful but escalated into violent confrontations between demonstrators and police.
- Escalation and Yanukovych’s Departure (February 2014): In early 2014, the protests turned more intense, with hundreds of people killed during clashes. By February 2014, the political situation became untenable for Yanukovych. Under mounting pressure from both domestic protests and international pressure, Yanukovych fled Kyiv on February 21, 2014, and ultimately left the country. This marked the de facto end of his presidency.
- Parliamentary Action: After Yanukovych fled, Ukraine’s parliament (the Verkhovna Rada) declared that he was no longer able to fulfill his duties as president, and they voted to remove him from office. This was done through a constitutional process, though critics have argued that it was unconstitutional.
- New Government: Following Yanukovych’s removal, the Verkhovna Rada appointed an interim government, which led to the election of a new president in May 2014.
Was It a Coup?
- No military coup: Unlike traditional coups where military forces take over, the 2014 Ukrainian events were more about a large-scale popular uprising (Euromaidan) that forced Yanukovych from power. There was no direct military takeover, though the country did face significant instability and tensions afterward.
- Political overthrow: The removal of Yanukovych was more of a political overthrow, carried out through mass protests, with parliamentary support following his flight. While the situation was chaotic and controversial, the key difference is that it was not a small group of elites or the military that forcibly seized power.
So, to sum up, while the 2014 events in Ukraine involved the dramatic removal of a sitting president, it doesn’t fit the classic definition of a coup as it lacked a direct military or small elite takeover. It’s better described as a revolution or uprising.Attach
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