Putin eyes total victory, EU urges West to mobilise for Ukraine
The European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, urged a ramped-up commitment to Ukraine, warning of a potentially extended conflict fueled by Russian President Vladimir Putin's determined pursuit of complete victory.
"The success of Putin's aggression hinges on bringing more soldiers onto the battlefield," Borrell asserted, highlighting the urgency of bolstering Ukraine's military and economic assistance. "Failure to significantly mobilise our support risks handing Putin victory in Ukraine."
Beyond Ukraine's immediate struggle, Borrell emphasised the wider geopolitical ramifications: "This is not merely about Ukraine. This is about the very existence of the European Union," he proclaimed, drawing attention to the "threat posed by a great power" to European democratic values.
Borrell further challenged the notion that limited territorial gains in Ukraine would satisfy Putin. "He cannot simply content himself with a piece of Ukraine," he stated, suggesting the Russian leader ultimately aims to thwart Ukraine's closer ties with the EU.
Concerns regarding the upcoming US presidential elections also featured in Borrell's remarks. He expressed worries about a potential shift in the geopolitical landscape that could benefit Russia. This underscores the EU's desire for unwavering bipartisan support for Ukraine in the United States.
Borrell's sobering assessment comes amidst anxieties about diminishing Western commitment to the conflict. Recent delays in additional US aid and internal EU disagreements over a multi-billion euro support package illustrate the complexities surrounding the war effort.
In light of these challenges, the EU's top diplomat has issued a clarion call for renewed unity and heightened support for Ukraine. Only through decisive action, Borrell contends, can the West effectively counter Putin's relentless offensive and navigate the potentially protracted conflict in the years to come.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
