Riga, March 8, LETA. Russian President Vladimir Putin is currently violating everything that civilized nations are advocating for, thus uniting almost the whole world against him, Katarina Barley, Vice-President of the European Parliament, told LETA.
“We, the European Union (EU), need to be very clear: this is an aggression by Russia, and no other sign is possible. We must stand firm against it, and that is what we are doing,” said Barley.
“I would also like to emphasize that the views of the EU and NATO are also focused on the Baltic States and there is no doubt that NATO membership guarantees the security of these countries. One of the goals of my visit to Riga is to remind you that we are together , “said the Vice – President of the European Parliament.
According to the German politician, Putin reckoned that the EU would not be united in its response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, as this is usually not the case, especially in foreign policy matters. “We watched Hungary closely because its president, Viktor Orban, is known for his close relationship with Putin. I think Putin took it into account. In these circumstances, he did not do what was expected of him. He wavered, but in the end we were 27 “We were able to make really important decisions over lunch! This is something unprecedented, especially in foreign policy,” emphasized Barley.
She pointed out that it is not just the EU that is completely united in its support for Ukrainians – it is almost the whole world. “Besides, they are not just politicians, we see the same thing in the economy, in culture and in sports – everyone is doing it. It gives me hope that we will be able to support Ukraine in this very unequal situation and the danger of extinction they face,” she said. “Also looking outside the EU – could you imagine that, for example, [Turcijas prezidents Tadžips] Erdogan, Azerbaijan or Kazakhstan will say “no, we will not support this” and will even oppose it.
Barley welcomed the unity of the EU and most of the world, as what happened in Ukraine was very unexpected for many. “We see that even Switzerland is now abandoning the position it has held for 200 years. The whole world is saying that it must be stopped!”
“We knew Putin could be violating international law and lying about it, but such brutal aggression and any violation of a binding law or rule… I think almost no one foresaw it. Especially in my country, Germany, where there are many politicians who always want to strive. “After good relations with Russia, especially being aware of our history and our historical responsibility.
She explained that the reason for such an approach was not bad, it was done because of the Russian people, not for the support of the government. “Now Putin has completely destroyed it all. Although it is clear that he wanted it the least, he has now united everyone against himself. Even those who sought dialogue,” said Barley.
The politician also pointed out that the EU is trying not to do too much harm to ordinary citizens through sanctions against the Putin regime.
“Even in times of oppression, when you can only be imprisoned for expressing your views alone or taking to the streets to oppose a war, or even for using the word ‘war’ for which a journalist can go to prison – we see that despite the fact that people are taking to the streets and saying that it is enough for them, people are trying to tell them that you are a problem, this kleptocracy is a problem, because the plunder of the country has been going on for decades, suppressing anyone who opposes it. “And I think we can do it,” she said.
Barley believes that more needs to be done, citing the British government as a good example. “However, I think these measures are already quite well targeted. They are also aimed at the banks and the financial system, so of course they also affect ordinary people. However, that is Putin’s responsibility, it must be made very clear. It is his war, “What he is doing is against all civilization,” she explained.
The Vice-President of the European Parliament emphasized that it was important not only for politicians to oppose such aggression.
“For example, the exclusion of Russia from the Eurovision Song Contest. It’s painful. But it’s painful. And it’s impossible to lie about it. You’re just not there either. It’s like sports. And it’s very important, and it’s happening for the first time,” said Barley.
The politician also believes that the EU must take a stronger stance against Belarus, which will be done.
“I agree that we need to be tougher on Lukashenko. We need to do more and we will do so. Of course, sanctions have already been imposed after the theft of the elections and the crackdown on the opposition, but I agree that they could be much tougher, and Belarus has now turned its attention.
Read the full interview with Katarina Barley, Vice-President of the European Parliament, at LETA + https://www.leta.lv/plus/84518780-DA07-4FFF-AC3B-36CA73B5731C/.
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