Everywhere, people are hoping for the devastating war in Ukraine to end. But what if a ceasefire, while stopping the immediate bloodshed, actually creates *new* dangers for Europe? That’s the stark warning from Wolfgang Ischinger, chairman of the Munich Security Conference.
Right now, Russia’s armies are heavily engaged in Ukraine, suffering immense losses. Ischinger points out that “As long as Ukraine defends Europe, the danger is not so great” because President Putin’s forces are tied up there. Ukraine isn’t just fighting for itself; it’s effectively a shield for the wider continent.
However, the moment a ceasefire takes hold, the situation changes dramatically. Ischinger cautions that Putin could then “continue his rearmament in peace,” shifting the threat. This re-armed force would pose a significantly intensified danger to NATO countries, especially those on the eastern flank, including Germany.
Of course, ending the immense suffering in Ukraine is paramount. Ischinger emphasizes that nothing is more important than stopping the bloodshed. But he also warns against complacency. A simple ceasefire, without a massive reduction in Russia’s military buildup in its western districts, would be “no reason to sit back and relax.” Such a reduction, he notes, is highly unlikely.
The way this war concludes is truly a “question of fate” for Germany and all of Europe. Ukraine’s brave defense today is crucial, but vigilance for tomorrow remains essential. As the world hopes for an end to the conflict, leaders like Ukrainian President Zelensky, expected at the upcoming security conference, face the complex challenge of securing not just peace, but lasting security.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/security-expert-ukraine-war-ends-101327010.html
