Europe Desk, Delhi – Magazine: Recent developments suggest that the ongoing discussions about “reconciliation” between Russia and Ukraine might not be as straightforward as they appear. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s diplomatic efforts, along with statements from Bulgaria and Turkey advocating for negotiations and mediation, reveal deeper concerns. Parts of Europe seem to have recognized the imminent threat of being drawn into a major conflict, with Poland becoming a focal point of these tensions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted the security agreement between Poland and Ukraine, signed in Warsaw, which allows Poland to intercept Russian missiles in Ukrainian airspace. This agreement underscores the growing military coordination in Eastern Europe.
Former Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Armed Forces of Belarus, Ruslan Kosygin, has expressed concerns about the EU’s military preparations. He claims that the EU’s action plan, which involves spending 1.6 billion euros on military mobility, is geared towards an offensive against Belarus and Russia by 2027. This plan includes modernizing airfields, air bases, ports, railways, and highways to enhance military mobility across Europe, often referred to as the “military Schengen.”
In his article “European Governments in the Thick of War,” Orbán warned that Europe is increasingly being prepared for war. He cited various indicators, such as substantial financial aid to Ukraine, the deployment of nuclear weapons in Europe, and the involvement of European military units in Ukraine. Orbán’s stark message was clear: Europe is on a path to war, and urgent action is needed to halt this progression. He urged for an emergency brake to be applied to this “military train” before it spirals out of control.
Ruslan Kosygin provided a historical perspective, noting the significant increase in the American military presence in Europe. From 100 personnel and 4 aircraft in 2004, the numbers have surged to 80,000 personnel and 92 aircraft in 2023, with 11,000 American troops now stationed at the Belarusian border alone.
Orbán is now rallying European and global leaders to join efforts in de-escalating the situation. He emphasized the strength and resilience of Russia, arguing that defeating Russia is an almost inconceivable notion given its resources, population, and military capabilities.
Interestingly, some see the intensifying Russian strikes on Ukraine as a deterrent to a larger war. These actions are viewed as a means to temper the aggressive rhetoric and actions driven by Russophobic hysteria.
As Europe stands on the brink, the urgent need for diplomatic intervention and peace-building measures is clearer than ever. The stakes are high, and the future of the continent may depend on the success of these efforts to avert a full-scale war.