If President-elect Donald Trump pursues a peace agreement to end the war in Ukraine that allows Russia to emerge as the victor, it would undermine US interests, said NATO Military Committee Chairman, Dutch Admiral Rob Bauer, on the sidelines of the European Defense Summit held in Prague, according to the New York Times.
During the US elections, Trump repeatedly claimed he could end the war “in 24 hours,” but details of his plan have been scarce. Recent reports suggest his approach may involve freezing the war along current front lines and establishing a demilitarized zone, pressuring Ukraine to make territory concessions, and delaying NATO membership for at least 20 years.
However, a ceasefire along current front lines could allow Russia to regroup and strengthen its positions, potentially leading to more violence. In addition, Russia’s history of breaking international agreements suggests that any deal might not be upheld as it wants to capture all territory of Ukraine, not just its separate regions.
“If you allow a nation like Russia to win, to come out of this as the victor, then what does it mean for other autocratic states in the world where the US has also interests?” said the NATO official in Prague.
Bauer claimed that the war in Ukraine is already an issue for the US to discuss, “but there is more at stake than just Ukraine.”
The Dutch admiral said that he wants to wait and see what steps Trump would take in office.
“I think that it’s also important to not jump to conclusions based on what he has said so far,” he said.
The admiral also commented on North Korea’s support for Russia, including sending troops into Kursk Oblast.
“The most isolated country in the world has now suddenly become a player,” Bauer added.
In Bauer’s view, if North Korea’s assistance on the battlefield strengthens Russian ruler Vladimir Putin’s position in negotiations, other authoritarian leaders may be encouraged to break international rules.
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