US statements on peace without strength benefit Putin – EU Commissioner
Photo: European Commissioner for Defense and Space Andrius Kubilius (Getty Images)
European Commissioner for Defense and Space Andrius Kubilius says in an interview with Le Monde that US statements about peace without force indicate a change in their formula regarding Ukraine, which could politically strengthen the Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
"Now the Americans are changing their formula, speaking first about peace but without force, and this risks politically strengthening Putin. I hope they do not make serious mistakes," Kubilius noted.
According to the Commissioner, he would be much more positively inclined if the US aligned a strategy of peace through strength with their European partners or the G7. However, US diplomats are currently moving forward without any consultations, which is causing noticeable confusion and emotions in Ukraine, Kubilius admitted.
"This worries me because, for Ukrainians, such a situation can create a sense of abandonment with very negative consequences," the official said.
In his view, Ukraine's Western partners should be very careful about how their decisions and words are perceived by Ukrainians, as they are fighting to protect both themselves and Europe.
Peace in Ukraine
The Commissioner also shared details of his conversation with Trump's special envoy Keith Kellogg.
"We spoke very frankly. I told him - yes, we need peace in Ukraine, but peace through strength. To achieve a just peace, Ukrainians need additional strength, and that strength can only come from our side, the American and European sides. So, strength first, then peace," Kubilius said.
The Lithuanian senior EU official also added that in European view, peace in Ukraine should be based on four clear principles:
- Ukraine's territorial integrity;
- Non-recognition of the occupation;
- A strong Ukrainian army without any restrictions;
- Maintaining sanctions against Russia.
Kubilius also believes that Russians must pay for the damages they have caused.
The head of the European Commission recently outlined the conditions for peace in Ukraine to Trump's envoy. During a meeting with US Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg in Brussels, she emphasized the EU’s crucial role in ensuring Ukraine’s financial stability and defense.
