Europe Must Strengthen Defense Against Russia, Warns EU's Michel

Russia's ambitions extend beyond Ukraine, mirroring its actions in Crimea a decade ago, warns Charles Michel, President of the European Council. He asserts that Europe must bolster its defense capabilities as reliance on U.S. support is no longer assured.

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In an opinion piece for the Euractiv website, Charles Michel discusses Europe's security landscape. The EU statesman emphasized the urgent need for the continent to enhance its defensive posture. Failure to appropriately respond to Russian aggression could place Europe in jeopardy, with Michel cautioning, "we will be next."

Highlighting the severity of the situation, Michel noted that the conflict in Ukraine represents the most significant security threat since the Second World War. "Two years into the conflict, it's evident that Russia's ambitions won't be confined to Ukraine, echoing its previous expansion in Crimea," he observed. Michel further pointed out the Kremlin's destabilizing activities in regions such as Moldova, Georgia, the South Caucasus, the Western Balkans, and Africa.

According to Michel, European reliance on American aid is a thing of the past. "It's imperative that we prepare to defend ourselves and adapt to a wartime economy (...). The time has come to assume responsibility for our own security," he argued. "We cannot afford to depend on others or be subject to the political whims of the U.S. or any other nation's election cycles," he added.

U.S. President Joe Biden, back in December, cautioned that following Ukraine, Putin might challenge NATO members, as reported by Newsweek.com. This sentiment is echoed by military and defense leaders from countries such as the UK, Denmark, and Poland, who have also outlined similar concerns.

Following his electoral victory in Russia, where Vladimir Putin secured over 87 percent of the vote, plans were announced to establish a buffer zone within Ukraine. This strategy aims to shield Russia from cross-border hostilities, according to ABC News. When questioned about the prospect of a Russia-NATO clash, Putin stated: -Nothing is off the table in today's world. - Acknowledging the grave implications of such a conflict, he added, "It's apparent to everyone that this could escalate into World War III."

Source: Euractiv, Newsweek.com, ABC News

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