Trump's change of attitude towards Putin is already bringing results, and Kubilius estimated that it opened the way for greater support for Ukraine. During his visit to Washington, Kubilius stressed that Russia understands only strength, and everything else treats as a sign of weakness. This position confirms the request for increased support for Ukraine, as expected by the European Union and the United States.
The European Union and the United States have so far spent about $60 billion on military aid to Ukraine, accounting for only 0.1% of their GDP. As Kubilius stressed, “it cannot be said that we cannot afford it.” The EU so offers low-cost loans under the SAFE programme to be allocated up to EUR 150 billion. This money is to be spent from autumn and EU countries intend to buy weapons, including those produced in Ukraine, due to its European quality and lower price.
Kubilius stated that moving distant from Europe and withdrawing from supporting Ukraine would be a strategical mistake. He referred to the words of the fresh NATO Force Commander in Europe, General Alexus Grynkewich, who estimated that in 2027 China and Russia could coordinate their aggressive actions. However, Kubilius pointed out that the EU is focused on building its own defence capabilities to be ready to defend the continent independently of the US decision.
In the context of European security, Kubilius stressed that the EU should be able to defend itself, without having to affect the US. This approach is in line with the objectives of the European Union, whose precedence is to keep peace and stableness in the region. Kubilius stated that the EU intends to increase its defence spending, which will enable it to respond more effectively to safety threats.
Cooperation between the EU and the US is crucial in safety matters, especially in the face of Russian aggression. As fresh events show, Trump understood that Putin "talks 1 way and does the other", which is an crucial step towards a more effective policy towards Russia. Kubilius estimated that Trump's change of attitude towards Putin was already bearing fruit and the EU should proceed to support Ukraine in its conflict for territorial independency and integrity.
In the coming years, the EU should proceed its efforts to strengthen its defence capacity, enabling it to respond more effectively to safety threats. Kubilius stated that the EU should be able to defend itself without having to affect the US, which is an crucial challenge for European safety policy.
