Ukraine crisis: Why it matters to the world economy

Source: http://money.cnn.com/2014/03/02/news/economy/ukraine-economy/index.html?iid=H_E_News

Ukraine is an important tie between Russia and the rest of Europe: Ukraine  doesn't hold the economic power it once did, but it does retain its geography.
Russia supplies about 25% of Europe's gas needs, and half of that is pumped via pipelines running through Ukraine.
The government cut off negotiations in November amid pressure from Russia,which offered discounts on natural gas if Ukraine signed a pact with Moscow's Customs Union. 

Ukraine's government is in debt and needs assistance: The situation arguably would not be so volatile if Ukrainian government coffers were more stable or the economy stronger.


Treasury Secretary Jack Lew said Sunday the U.S. is "Prepared to work partners to provide as much   support as Ukraine needs" for economic growth and  stability.

Ukraine isn't the only fragile emerging market: Ukraine's instability comes at a difficult time for emerging markets worldwide, which are seeing growth slow as the Federal Reserve eases its  economic stimulus. Troubles in Ukraine will also hurt Russian banks, which have lent heavily to Ukraine.

This issue might effect the economy by causing some corporations to become bankrupt if we decide to add $20 million to the Ukrainian  economy. This issue can also affect how the ability to receive wheat and corn since trading will be halting. This will also cause prices to rise because of the underproduction of the product.