The Russian government said it will abolish current discount gas benefits provided to Ukraine, resulting in an increase in tension between the two countries. The reason Russia provided gas with a 30% discount was due to historical ties between the two countries. However, a conflict began after Russia annexed the Crimea region after Ukraine ousted the pro-soviet government in February to align itself with Western countries. Russia will abolish the gas benefits to pressure Ukraine with its political intentions. These Russian actions will potentially heighten tension between the two countries and affect the Ukrainian political scene that is deeply divided in regards to its attitude towards Russia.