Concerns Over Ongoing Conflict in Ukraine
The former NATO secretary-general has expressed serious concerns that without a significant shift in strategy, the war in Ukraine could turn into a “forever war.” This warning comes amid increasing calls for greater support from Western nations.
Anders Fogh Rasmussen, who held the NATO position until 2014 and has actively advocated for enhanced support for Ukraine during the ongoing conflict with Russia, emphasized the urgency of the situation. He proposed the introduction of European drones and missile defense systems to bolster Ukraine’s defense and suggested sending troops as a way to prepare for peace negotiations. Additionally, he recommends supplying long-range missiles to enable Ukraine to strike deeper into Russian territory.
Rasmussen highlighted the necessity of increasing NATO aid, suggesting that he might be willing to engage directly in “activities on the ground.” He noted that without a major change in strategy, the prospect of a prolonged conflict remains likely. “Putin has no incentive to pursue peace negotiations as long as he believes he can achieve victory on the battlefield,” he stated. “We need speed and a shift in our approach.”
Rasmussen’s strategy further includes the establishment of air raid shelters in Europe to help intercept Russian missiles and drones, which would be based in countries like Poland and Romania. This marks a significant escalation from current efforts, which are primarily focused on enhancing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities while preparing for potential future Russian aggression. Recently, Poland and Romania announced plans to implement a new anti-drone defense system, aimed at addressing these concerns.
Rasmussen also proposed sending European peacekeeping forces to Ukraine prior to any formal peace agreements, a move that has yet to be publicly endorsed by European nations. He criticized the current stance of a “coalition on standby,” advocating for a more proactive deployment of a “European Defense Force.”
Moreover, Rasmussen expressed support for providing Ukraine with long-range missiles capable of reaching targets well within Russian territory. This demand has been reiterated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, especially as the war progresses and tactical positions shift farther away from Ukraine.
Strategists note that many Russian weapon systems are most effectively dealt with before they can launch. Discussions have emerged about the U.S. possibly providing Tomahawk cruise missiles to NATO, which could then be delivered to Ukraine. While Rasmussen supports this, he acknowledged that it might require European nations to demonstrate a willingness to deploy advanced cruise missiles first. He referenced Germany’s consideration of sending its Taurus missile, citing that such a move would signal to the U.S. the importance of a unified international approach to the conflict.
Germany has been deliberating for over a year whether to supply the Taurus, which has a longer range than currently used by Ukraine, though concerns about escalation have led to hesitation in Berlin.
Rasmussen also touched on funding for these military supplies, suggesting that Europe should anticipate Russia’s defeat and potential reparations to support such efforts. He mentioned that funds promised by the Kremlin could be redirected towards purchasing weapons necessary for overcoming Russia.
Having long-standing ties with Ukraine and serving as an adviser to Zelenskiy, Rasmussen noted the potential for NATO allies to act independently if a unified strategy is not found. He emphasized Poland’s eagerness to support Ukraine, hinting at the possibility of forming a coalition of willing nations, particularly among Baltic states, as they share a history of feeling vulnerable to Russian threats.
