Today in Moldova, the European political summit is discussing what else can be done to support Ukraine. And this is extremely important, says geopolitical analyst Alex Krijger. In particular, the fact that the summit is being held in a country close to Ukraine speaks volumes, he says.
This is a meeting of the European Political Community, to which all the countries of Europe belong, except Russia and Belarus. The group was set up by French President Emmanuel Macron last year and met at the invitation of Moldovan President Maia Sandu, Krijger says. “To connect all European countries and make it clear that Europe as a whole supports Ukraine.”
“The offensive has been announced for some time and will happen one day”
Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is also present at the summit. He called for more support from Ukraine, even if the country is in danger of losing. According to Krijger, this has everything to do with Europe realizing that it is on the eve of the big Ukrainian counter-offensive. “It’s been heralded for quite some time and it’s going to happen one day,” he says.
Symbolism
Warrior wouldn’t be surprised if Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelensky launches that offensive on June 6, due to the symbolism behind that date. “Zelensky has a great sense of history and European history – even D-Day took place on May 6,” he explains. “So I wouldn’t be surprised if they start next week.”
According to Krijger, Zelensky could also be thinking of the important NATO summit to be held in a month’s time in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius. “I think it’s a logical time to launch an offensive for this, given the conditions on the battlefield,” he says. “So I also think the summit in Moldova is meant to get European leaders inside and outside the EU to express their support for Ukraine on the eve of the offensive.”
BORN
Another topic that has most likely been discussed, according to Krijger, is the possible NATO membership for Ukraine. “Zelensky must have had a lot of conversations about it,” Krijger says. «Certainly towards the NATO summit in Lithuania. Of course, something has to be said about perspective. Although I don’t expect there to be a concrete plan in a few weeks.”
Where France is open to possible membership, Germany is still relatively reluctant. Krijger: ‘I think if we are very honest, we are all cautious about the EU. Because when it comes to EU laws and regulations, Ukraine still falls short.’ According to Krijger, with regard to NATO, something can be done, “for example, to express a three- or five-year goal, for example.”
Remarkable
So Rutte spoke emphatically in favor of a Ukrainian victory, and he seemed certain it would happen. He also quoted the Irish writer George Bernard Shaw: “Freedom means responsibility”. He thinks Europe should take responsibility.’
And this has everything to do with the fact that US support may be temporary. “The Americans have returned to Biden, but there will be elections again in November 2024,” concludes Krijger. “The answer to the question of how Ukraine will ultimately proceed will have to come from Europe.”
Source: BNR
Sharon Rock is an author and journalist who writes for 24 News Globe. She has a passion for learning about different cultures and understanding the complexities of the world. With a talent for explaining complex global issues in an accessible and engaging way, Sharon has become a respected voice in the field of world news journalism.
