The Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna emphasized the need to discuss not only security guarantees for Ukraine but also how Ukrainian guarantees impact the security of all of Europe. He expressed this position before an informal meeting of the European Union foreign ministers in the Gymnich format, which took place in Limassol, Cyprus.
This is reported by Kyiv24
“When we talk about security guarantees, we mean not only security guarantees for Ukraine but also security guarantees of Ukraine for Europe, because, let’s be honest, Ukraine is the largest military power in Europe, in our region.”
Challenges for Europe in Negotiations with Russia
Margus Tsahkna noted that currently, the European Union should focus not on finding a mediator for negotiations with the authorities of the Russian Federation but on strengthening its own position and providing comprehensive support to Ukraine. He warned that the idea of mediation is a trap that the Kremlin is trying to create to buy time and neutralize pressure on Russia.
According to the Estonian diplomat, any proposals for negotiations from European representatives could lead to a return to Russia’s old demands, and Vladimir Putin’s main goal is to drag out the process and draw Europe into a passive mediating role. Tsahkna emphasized that mediation implies neutrality, which contradicts the need to increase pressure on Russia in the future.
Position on Territorial Integrity and Sanctions
The Estonian Foreign Minister noted that any future negotiations must be based on the principles of territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine. He also pointed out that there should be no neutral zones or buffer territories remaining between the European Union, NATO, and the Russian Federation, which aligns with Europe’s current security strategy.
Tsahkna underscored the necessity of continuing Ukraine’s EU accession process and strengthening NATO membership prospects. He urged the EU to adopt the 21st sanctions package against Russia as soon as possible and to open all negotiation clusters for Ukraine and Moldova. In his opinion, only the strengthening of sanctions and support for Ukraine can change the Kremlin’s position and prepare the groundwork for future negotiations, in which Europe must stand together with Ukraine, not as a mediator.
Recently, active discussions have been taking place in the EU regarding who could represent Europe in possible negotiations with Russia concerning the cessation of the war against Ukraine. The EU foreign ministers at the meeting in Limassol are to agree on a common position regarding future negotiations, and the EU High Representative, Kaja Kallas, has prepared a special document outlining her vision for this process.