Unfinished story of the Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics

Abstract

The chapter provides an empirical insight into the ongoing conflict in Ukrainian Donbass, which seems to have resulted in the formation of two more de facto states – the Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics. The chapter focusses on control over the territory and its population, the functioning of state institutions, and attempts to gain international recognition. Further on, the authors discuss the historical and ideological context from which both republics have emerged, analyzing their historical continuity, ideological basis, and economy. In conclusion, the authors raise the question as to whether these entities can be considered as genuine de facto states.