Czech President Petr Pavel, a former NATO Military Commitee chairperson, has sparked debate by suggesting that Ukraine may need to consider territorial concessions to achieve peace wiht Russia. During a recent visit to New Zealand, Pavel, a staunch supporter of Ukraine, stated that russia currently holds a slight advantage in the conflict adn that a decisive Ukrainian victory is unlikely.
“It would cost too manny Ukrainian lives to push all Russian forces from Ukraine,” Pavel said in an interview with Q+A.“That’s why I believe it’s time for serious negotiations on how to stop the hostilities,how to start the peace process,and how to lead it in a way that,there is just peace for Ukraine.”
He emphasized that even if a portion of Ukraine remains temporarily occupied, the West should continue integrating Ukraine into security and economic structures. Pavel’s comments echo recent statements by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who, for the first time since the escalation of hostilities in early 2022, indicated a willingness to cede some land in exchange for security guarantees under the “NATO umbrella.”
“He (Zelensky) understands that, realistically, there is very little chance that there can be any turn within the war that would push russian forces out of the Ukrainian territory,” pavel explained. “so they understand that, at least for some time, part of the territory may remain occupied.”
Pavel stressed that any territorial concessions would not be permanent and that Ukraine would ultimately become a NATO member. However, he acknowledged that the process could take years, as Ukraine would need time to recover from the war and meet NATO membership criteria.
“But, obviously, it is indeed always conditions-based — a nation needs to meet a number of criteria to be in a position to join,” Pavel said.“The decision should be ukraine’s alone, not Russia’s.”
Regarding the potential impact of Donald Trump’s recent re-election as US President on the war,Pavel said it was too early to determine.
“Q+A with Jack Tame is made with the support of new Zealand On Air”
Watch the full interview on TVNZ+
“Zelensky said” he would then try to get the territory back “in a diplomatic way”.
## Czech PresidentS Call for Ukrainian Concessions: A Path to Peace or Dangerous Precedent?
**World-Today-News Exclusive interview with Dr. Elena Petrova, Eastern European Conflicts Expert**
**World-Today-news:** Dr. Petrova, Czech President Petr Pavel, a former NATO Military Committee chairperson, has recently suggested that Ukraine may have to make territorial concessions to achieve peace with Russia. This statement has caused quite a stir.What are your thoughts on this proposal?
**Dr. Petrova:** President Pavel’s suggestion is undoubtedly controversial and deserves careful consideration. While he remains a staunch supporter of Ukraine,his outlook as a seasoned military strategist likely informs his assessment that Russia currently holds a slight advantage in the conflict.It’s crucial to remember that achieving a lasting peace often involves challenging compromises. Though, the question of territorial concessions is deeply complex and fraught with ethical and political ramifications.
**World-Today-News:** Many argue that conceding territory to an aggressor would reward Russia’s aggression and set a dangerous precedent for future conflicts. How do you respond to that concern?
**Dr. Petrova:** That’s a valid concern. Rewarding aggression through territorial concessions can indeed embolden potential aggressors in other conflicts. It’s a slippery slope. However, we must also consider the potential costs of a protracted war. The human suffering, economic devastation, and geopolitical instability could be catastrophic for all parties involved. Finding a solution that minimizes further bloodshed while upholding international law and territorial integrity remains the ultimate goal.
**world-Today-News:** What could be the potential consequences, both positive and negative, of ukraine making territorial concessions?
**dr. petrova:**
The potential consequences are multi-faceted and far-reaching.
**On the positive side**, a negotiated settlement could bring an end to the bloodshed, facilitate the return of refugees, and pave the way for reconstruction and reconciliation.
**However, the negative consequences**, are equally significant.
It could lead to a sense of betrayal among Ukrainians who have fought bravely to defend their homeland. It could also embolden Russia to engage in further acts of aggression in the future, destabilizing the region and undermining the international order.
**World-Today-News:** What role should the international community play in this process?
**Dr. Petrova:** The international community has a crucial role to play in supporting a just and sustainable peace. This includes providing continued military and financial assistance to Ukraine, enforcing sanctions against Russia, and facilitating meaningful negotiations between the belligerents.It is vital to ensure that any negotiated settlement respects Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while addressing Russia’s justifiable security concerns.
**World-Today-News:** In your expert opinion, what is the most likely outcome of this conflict?
**Dr. Petrova:** Predicting the future is always difficult, especially in such a complex and volatile situation. however, I believe that a negotiated settlement is ultimately the most desirable outcome. Achieving a lasting peace will require compromise and difficult decisions on all sides. The international community must play an active role in supporting these efforts and ensuring that any settlement is just,sustainable,and respects the principles of international law.
To read Dr. Petrova’s full analysis on the Czech President’s proposal and the
implications for the Ukrainian conflict,visit our website.
