Europe's security depends on a just peace in Ukraine
Ukraine has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of the Russian invasion, emerging as a key pillar of Europe’s security architecture, according to Igor Munteanu, leader of the Coalition for Unity and Welfare.
The former ambassador stated that the U.S.-led peace plan must be negotiated directly between Ukraine and Russia, as the war has undermined a fundamental principle of international order—sovereignty over national borders—leading to geopolitical instability and uncertainty about the future.
“Reflecting on the crimes and horrors of this war, we understand how difficult it is for Ukrainians to endure a war of attrition, especially without the necessary military equipment. Russia’s intervention has struck at the core of international order, and if this principle is eroded, no nation can feel secure,” Munteanu emphasized.
He stressed that peace must be durable, fair, and inclusive of Ukraine to prevent further escalation. Any negotiations, in his view, should involve mutual concessions to ensure a lasting resolution. He also highlighted the long-term threat posed by Vladimir Putin’s imperialist ambitions, which were first outlined at the 2007 Munich Conference.
Additionally, Munteanu called for accountability for war crimes, insisting that those responsible must face justice at the International Criminal Court. “These atrocities must not go unpunished—neither Ukraine nor the world will forget them,” he stated.
Commenting on U.S. diplomatic strategy, Munteanu noted that European actors are struggling to adapt to the approach of the Trump administration, which prioritizes achieving peace at any cost. “The United States is not an isolated power; there remains significant potential for transatlantic dialogue. Trump’s strategy seeks to reinforce resilience in Europe, but European nations must strengthen their defense and security mechanisms to manage conflicts and prevent further tensions across the continent,” he concluded.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
