Croatian PM warns against dangerous precedent in Ukraine peace deal
During the European Political Community summit in Budapest, Andrej Plenković firmly opposed the notion of Ukraine relinquishing part of its territory in exchange for peace with Russia. He warned that such a move would set a dangerous precedent for the world.
8 November 2024 07:24
At Thursday's meeting in Budapest, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković strongly condemned the suggestion that Ukraine should cede territory to end the conflict with Russia. "If we aim to end the war by accepting the violation of international law, the killing of thousands of people, the destruction of a vast nation, and adopting a policy of fait accompli, we will create a precedent dangerous for the entire world," Plenković stated during the summit.
By agreeing to these terms, we fall into the trap of the aggressor," added the Croatian Prime Minister, highlighting the importance of upholding international standards.
His statement was a response to comments from Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, who, before the summit, said that "his key message would be to finally start conversations about peace, rather than continually consider who will win the war in Ukraine."
Plenković replied to this statement, saying: "Everyone wants peace, but not one that destroys the foundation of our values." According to data from the Croatian Ministry of Defence, Croatia has so far provided Ukraine with military aid worth about £150 million. Zagreb has also offered Kyiv assistance in demining the country and prosecuting war criminals, utilising experiences gained after the conflicts of the 1990s.
However, Serbia refuses to join the international sanctions imposed on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine and maintains high-level relations with the Kremlin authorities. President Vučić reminded that Belgrade has provided Kyiv with aid worth £42 million, and he has met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky several times since the start of the Russian aggression.
Donald Trump's idea for ending the war in Ukraine
"The Wall Street Journal" reports that advisors to the American president-elect are considering ways to end the Russian aggression in Ukraine that has continued since 2022. One scenario being considered involves Russia retaining the territories it has seized so far and Ukraine agreeing not to join NATO for two decades.
This plan also suggests establishing a demilitarised zone along the entire front line following a cessation of military actions. The American president assured that he would not send American troops to Ukraine. According to "The Wall Street Journal," security would instead be provided by Poles, Germans, Britons, and French forces.
