How to ensure peace in Ukraine? 

A number of Western politicians and media outlets are increasingly talking about a possible ceasefire or "freezing" of the Russian-Ukrainian war as Ukraine prepares for an expected counteroffensive. 

The leaders of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia responded to French President Emmanuel Macron's attempts to negotiate with China over the Russian-Ukrainian war. They described the reasons why there will be better times for negotiations with the aggressor state, Russia, than now. And why a "partial victory" or a frozen dispute will not solve anything in the Russian-Ukrainian war.

As for Ukraine, the free world should continue on its current path. Leaders say Ukraine should be provided with all the tools and resources necessary to defeat Russia and fully restore its sovereignty.

Ukraine needs to establish peace terms
Leaders from Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia urged support for Kyiv during a crucial phase of the war. They emphasized that Russia's aggression against Ukraine is a clear indication of its hostility towards Europe and the West, posing a threat to global stability and security.

“Our call should be taken seriously: if Russia wins and Ukraine falls, central Europe may be next. Accordingly, defeating Russia now in Ukraine will reduce the chances of Ukraine’s backers’ having to spill their own blood and further treasure later. It will send a clear message that frozen conflicts and endless wars have no place in our region. And it will make clear to tyrants everywhere that aggression will not be rewarded and dictators will not be permitted to carve the planet into spheres of their evil influence,” their joint appeal reads. 

Their main points are that the transatlantic partnership is rejuvenated by the conflict, with NATO countries increasing defense spending and modernizing armed forces. Enhanced defense strategies and readiness are crucial, as new pledges are made at the Vilnius Summit in July 2023. Support for Ukraine must continue amidst intensifying battles. The leaders commend the International Criminal Court's indictment of Vladimir Putin and propose a special court to prosecute top Russian officials. They also suggest seizing Russian assets for Ukraine's post-war reconstruction.

Ukraine's allies firmly believe that lasting peace can only be achieved on Ukraine's terms. Russia's tactic of freezing disputes only buys time and fails to bring stability, security, or economic conditions in the long term. It allows Russia to strengthen its military and promote its imperial ideology while engaging in political conflicts.

China undermines Macron's peace plans

French President Emmanuel Macron's diplomatic efforts to gain China's support in the Russia-Ukraine conflict face another setback. 

According to the article, the Chinese ambassador to France, Lu She, disregarded internationally recognized borders by stating that former Soviet republics lack sovereign status as separate states, which has drawn intense criticism, including from the United States. It might be possible that China is testing Europe's response.This development hampers Macron's strategy to facilitate negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.

While the Ukrainian Armed Forces are gearing up for a spring counteroffensive, Macron's insistence on talks risks undermining the united front of allies and raises doubts about Kyiv's ability to regain its land. However, given China's reluctance to influence Putin, it is unlikely that Macron will succeed in this effort. Many nations doubt China's ability to act as an impartial mediator due to their close ties with Russia. 

Against this backdrop, the West must be prepared to support the American position and the statements of the Central European presidents calling for more decisive support for Ukraine and demanding that Russia withdraw its troops from Ukrainian soil.