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Against the backdrop of the concentration of Russian military forces near the Ukrainian borders, Ukraine must mobilize both internal efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities and strengthen external diplomatic and partnership ties.
Stefan Füle, European Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighborhood Policy (2010-2014), spoke about this in the “Top Show” program of the UA TV channel.
There is no need to panic in the current situation, but the Russian threat should be taken seriously.
“I think there is really no room for panic right now. But need to be seriously worried. There are reasons for this. Because no one moves 130 thousand soldiers with all the logistics for the military to the borders just to show something. Russia is talking about military exercises. But any deployment or even training can very quickly turn into an intervention in a sovereign state. So, of course, you need to be concerned” – he said.
Democracies must unite around Ukraine to defend the principles of democracy.
“And democratic countries, like my country, other countries should unite around Ukraine. And it is also time for the Ukrainian forces inside Ukraine to unite and forget about their political differences, to stand together. Such an association strengthens you so that the specified deployment does not lead to an attack on Ukraine” – Fule continued.
In the event of a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia will have to face serious consequences, as the world community will stand up for Ukrainian statehood and territorial integrity.
“We are talking about the fact that Russia will pay very dearly if this happens. The defense industry and the defense capability of Ukraine are being strengthened. I mean, a lot of things are happening. And we are serious about what is happening now, [we are preparing] for the possible consequences. And as friends of Ukraine, we are doing everything we can. And I think that in this unity we will stand side by side with Ukraine, and the people will stand together, and we will continue to move under this flag” – he summed up.
To remind, President Biden that any crossing of the Ukrainian border by Russian units will be considered an invasion, and there will be a “tough and coordinated economic response” to this.
