MOSCOW, August 24. /TASS/. Western nations supporting Ukraine do not intend to help the country grow its economy, Ukrainian economist Oleg Pendzin said.

"I do not really believe that there will be a major inflow of investment when the active phase of the conflict is over," the expert told the UNIAN news agency in an interview.

In his view, Europe needs Ukraine as "a shield," and its economic development - especially of the national economy’s competitive sectors - is not a priority for the EU.

"The concept of a ‘frontier’ implies that money is funneled exclusively into areas that ensure a country’s defense capabilities. Civilian economic sectors exist only to provide the local population with the necessary goods and services," he said. "In other words, no one is going to invest money here in order to create enterprises with a significant export potential."

In his view, "partners" will continue to exploit Ukraine.

"Do you really think it will be otherwise? I enjoy science fiction, but utopias aren't my thing," he said.

Viktor Medvedchuk, the former head of the banned Opposition Platform - For Life party, said earlier that Ukraine’s Western partners are not interested in reviving its economy; they only need a military training ground and an outpost against Russia.