Serhiy Shelukhin’s Theory of the Celtic Origin of Ukraine-Rus’

This article analyzes the idea of Ukrainian statehood, the means and resources deployed in its pursuit, the search for the optimum forms of state development, as well as the causes behind Ukraine’s loss of independence, as presented in the academic writings of Serhiy Shelukhin. The distinctive features of the Russian Federation’s contemporary neo-imperial policy were identified, and the Norman theory of the origin of the Slavic peoples and the resulting frame of reference for the Ukraine were discussed. The interpretation of the Norman theory by Russian pro-unification supporters was described. The main approaches regarding the origin of Kievan Rus’ were examined, and the Celtic theory of the origin of the Ukrainian nation was explored. Serhiy Shelukhin’s theory of ethnogenesis of the Ukrainian nation was presented. The claim that the Ukrainian nation is a Slavic nation that had incorporated Greek and Celtic settlers was substantiated, and evidence for Celtic-Ukrainian kinship was provided. The origin and meaning of the terms “Rus’”, “Ukraine”, “Malorossiya” were expounded. The authors concluded that the views of Serhiy Shelukhin have taken on a special meaning in recent years because every independent nation has the right to shape its political history and sovereignty.