In the Russian-Ukrainian conflict the West based on the non-recognition of the Crimea reunification with Russia unambiguously supported Kiev. However, the EU countries guided first of all by geostrategic considerations took a more reserved position than the United States. While the American establishment has fo-cused on strengthening sanctions pressure on Moscow, the Europeans, with Germany assuming the leading role, have concentrated on a political resolution of the conflict potentially dangerous for them. Nevertheless, heavy dependence on Washington forces Brussels to continue tightening its policy against Russia though sacrificing its own interests.