As I said in the European Parliament in Strasbourg, we must hope for the best and prepare for the worst, ”Borrell wrote on his blog. “We cannot rule out Russia’s desire to use this crisis as a lever to achieve its stated goal of changing the security system in Europe, as well as excluding Europeans from talks. But we know that our American allies will not fall into this trap “- added the head of European diplomacy.
According to Josep Borrell, “We know that words and statements alone are not enough to change the calculations of the Russian leadership, which is why it is so important that EU leaders decide to extend the current economic sanctions and warn that any move by Russia against Ukraine would it had serious consequences. “
Recall that the Russian Foreign Ministry released on Friday several “draft agreements” on the de facto division of spheres of influence in Europe, documents that Moscow wants to sign with the North Atlantic Alliance and the United States. At one point, Russia called on NATO countries to assume obligations that would prevent further expansion of the Alliance, including the accession of Ukraine and other states.
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine
In addition, Russia proposes to abandon “any military activity on the territory of Ukraine, as well as in other Eastern European, Transcaucasian and Central Asian states.” White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said the United States had seen Russia’s proposals for negotiations on so-called “security guarantees,” but stressed that there would be no negotiations without European allies and partners.
The North Atlantic Alliance, for its part, stated its own conditions for initiating a dialogue, saying that it should take into account NATO’s concerns about Russia’s actions, be based on key European security principles and documents, and be conducted. in consultation with the Alliance’s European partners, including Ukraine. (Rador)
