Western officials warn against 'Munich agreement' for Ukraine amid US election
Illustrative image (Getty Images)
Over a hundred high-ranking officials from Western countries have addressed European states in an open letter, urging them to be prepared for any outcomes of the upcoming presidential elections in the United States. Specifically, they call on European nations to prevent any agreements from being reached with the Russian Federation, according to the officials' letter.
The signatories of the letter believe that as the US presidential election approaches, Ukraine and its allies face a dual strategic threat. They point out that a new administration if led by Republican candidate Donald Trump, could seek an agreement with Russia that would harm Ukraine’s interests and impact European security.
“This would leave Ukraine adrift from NATO and the EU, in a condition of fake neutrality– and Europe with a destabilizing geopolitical greyzone in the heart of the continent,” they added.
According to the signatories, the second scenario involves Democratic candidate Kamala Harris’s administration continuing a policy of “stasis and red lines,” which has already restricted Ukraine’s ability to pursue victory in the war.
The letter’s authors draw clear parallels between both scenarios and the 1938 Munich Agreement, which they consider an example of a false “peace” achieved through European countries’ tacit acceptance of the dismemberment of a sovereign state. They believe a third path exists that could ensure Ukraine’s survival as an independent state and lead to Russia’s defeat.
“The course of action we propose is, for a coalition of willing nations within NATO to commit to enhance military and financial support to Kyiv and to recommit to the aim of a sovereign Ukraine within its borders recognised by international law, focused around a clear strategy and theory of victory,” the authors added.
US election
On Tuesday, November 5, the United States is holding its presidential election. The main candidates for the presidency are Kamala Harris from the Democratic Party and Donald Trump, representing the Republican Party.
According to the latest polls, both candidates have nearly identical ratings. The outcome will largely depend on seven "swing states," where voters often shift their support between candidates from different political parties.
For more on the potential implications for Ukraine following the US election, read RBC-Ukraine's material.
