Ukraine's victory plan represents attempt to push out capitulation proposals in West - Landsbergis
In the West, war fatigue over Ukraine has reached its peak, leading to statements about peace that amount to calls for capitulation. However, Ukraine's victory plan seeks to counteract these sentiments, states Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis.
"This fatigue compels us to seek an exit, which is why we are hearing more discussions about peace that, in my opinion, are proposals for capitulation. Therefore, the victory plan is a clear push to counteract such sentiments," Landsbergis said.
Moreover, the minister emphasized that the most important thing for Ukraine is security guarantees. According to him, there is no better guarantee in Europe than Article 5 of NATO.
He also added that inviting Ukraine to NATO now, amid border uncertainties, is entirely possible, and historical precedents exist, such as the case of Germany. Thus, only political will is needed for accession.
Landsbergis stressed that the Alliance could start preparing defense plans for Ukraine right now and should not wait for the moment when our country joins NATO. It is necessary to send a message in both directions.
"One message is for Putin, that his aggression will not continue, and that the West can defend Ukraine. The second is for Ukrainians, so they can start to view and see their country as safe," the minister emphasized.
However, if Ukraine does not receive security guarantees, Landsbergis stated that it will have to take care of its own defense.
"I'm not saying that nuclear weapons are the way to go, but it does indicate a certain mindset that clearly points out: if not NATO, then what remains? We will have to defend ourselves, as Putin will indeed not stop," he concluded.
Recently, French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu stated that the question of inviting Ukraine to NATO depends on which administration is in the White House (US). According to the official, his country is not opposed to Ukraine being invited to the Alliance.
Earlier, it was reported that the US is now also open to the idea of inviting Ukraine to NATO. This position may further influence Berlin's stance.