Russia–Ukraine standoff is a test for Western world says President - News - National Security Bureau

18.02.2022

Russia–Ukraine standoff is a test for Western world says President

International tensions caused by Russia’s build–up of troops on the Ukrainian border and the resulting fears of a possible invasion are a test for the whole Western community, President Andrzej Duda, has said.

In a guest article published in the German newspaper Die Welt on Friday, Andrzej Duda said the crisis could only be solved if the West remained united.

„The situation is a great test of our solidarity that will show whether we are really committed to the values that we all cherish,” Andrzej Duda wrote.

„If Ukraine and its Western aspirations are sacrificed for the sake of calm, economic interests or political ambitions, it will be a huge blow not only to Ukrainian society, but to the whole Western community,” President Duda warned.

Andrzej Duda also urged the West to involve Ukrainians in any negotiations with Russia.

„Ukraine has the right to determine its own future, and the door to the West must remain open to Ukraine,” the president continued.

At the same time the West must make sure that it does not humiliate Russia, Andrzej Duda said.

„We must seek a solution that will let all sides save their face,” he said.

Russia has amassed more than 100,000 troops near its border with Ukraine and has demanded concessions from Nato, including assurances that the bloc will not accept any new eastern members. Moscow and Minsk have also started joint military manoeuvres that are being closely watched by Nato.

Russia has claimed some of its units are being withdrawn to their permanent bases, but Nato says the troops are just being moved around and an attack could take place at any moment. (PAP)