Strengthening Ukraine’s Defense: The Path to Lasting Peace

[Social Media]

 

To secure a long-term peace in Ukraine, the world must convey to Vladimir Putin that he cannot dictate the outcome of this war. Ukraine’s security hinges on increased military support, a direct path to NATO membership, and global backing for President Volodymyr Zelensky’s peace initiative. 

 

Russian President Vladimir Putin has invaded Ukraine twice since 2014, refusing to acknowledge its sovereignty. Despite his repeated efforts to control the country, the Ukrainian people have resisted his aggression. After more than two years of relentless defense, it is evident that Ukrainians will not surrender to Russian dominance. However, despite their bravery, Putin’s destructive war continues. Without firm resolve from Ukraine’s allies, the conflict risks becoming a prolonged threat to European stability.

 

Russia’s militarization poses a danger not just to Ukraine but to the entire world, with potentially devastating consequences. Already, the war has sent energy and food prices soaring globally and has threatened nuclear safety. By trampling on the core principles of international law, Russia has shaken the global order. 

 

To promote peace, it is essential for Ukraine’s allies to demonstrate that Putin will not control how this war concludes. A peace agreement must be founded on the principles of international law, backed by military aid that strengthens Ukraine on the battlefield, guarantees long-term security, and clears the way for its accession to NATO. While Putin seeks to extend the conflict, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is working toward peace.

 

This summer, Zelensky rallied representatives from over 90 countries in Switzerland to build support for his ten-point peace formula, which includes nuclear safety measures, addressing environmental consequences of the conflict, and calling for a full Russian withdrawal.

 

Global pressure is key to reaching a peace deal, but a lasting resolution also requires strong security guarantees. Russia’s repeated violations of international law and human rights demonstrate that peace cannot rely on Putin’s promises alone.

 

Ultimately, Ukraine’s ability to defend itself will determine the war’s outcome. Ukraine has every right to use long-range weapons against Russian missiles and drones that continue to kill civilians. “Limiting its ability to do so is essentially asking it to fight with one arm tied behind its back,” as Ukraine’s forces have proven their ability to use Western-supplied weapons responsibly. Allies must lift restrictions on the types of weapons supplied and how they can be used.

 

In addition to immediate military aid, Ukraine’s allies must pledge long-term support, including financial resources and military equipment for as long as necessary. Already, more than 30 countries have provided long-term security guarantees through the Kyiv Security Compact. Now, it is time to ensure those commitments are upheld. Over the coming months, efforts will focus on implementing the guarantees, assessing new threats, and aligning Ukraine’s security with Europe’s broader defense goals. 

 

Preventing Putin from winning the peace requires more than promises. Allies should expand their support by training Ukrainian forces, sending civilian contractors or military teams to repair equipment on-site, and possibly establishing an extended air-defense shield over Western Ukraine. Each of these measures will bolster Ukraine’s position in future negotiations.

 

Ultimately, the surest path to long-term peace in Europe is for Ukraine to join NATO. Leaving Ukraine in a vulnerable “grey zone” would only invite further aggression and instability. NATO must offer Ukraine a clear path to membership, sending a strong message to Putin that his war will not prevent Ukraine’s eventual accession.

 

As Putin’s militarized Russia continues to threaten Europe, Ukraine and its allies must heed the ancient Roman maxim, “If you want peace, prepare for war.” Over the past two years, Ukraine has shown its determination to defend its freedom. Now, the international community must summon the courage to ensure that peace prevails.

 

Anders Fogh Rasmussen, a former NATO secretary-general

 

Credit: Project-Syndicate 2024-09-20