I’d be careful about the implication that being a part of the USSR was a wonderful thing for Ukraine. It was the breadbasket of the USSR, yet millions died of starvation during the Holdemor of the 1930s, which at best was due to gross mismanagement. Ukraine also carried more than their weight during WWII and played a key role in the ultimate victory. Ukraine also has its own distinct history and culture, similar to, but quite distinct from the Russians.