A weakening of Ukraine would be a serious strategic blow to all of Europe — French senator

Depriving Ukraine of its sovereignty or ability to defend itself would seriously weaken all of Europe strategically and could encourage Russia to continue its aggressive policy. Supporting Ukraine’s defense today will cost European states far less than a possible confrontation with Russia, emboldened by a victory over Ukraine. Europe therefore needs to strengthen its own defense industry, develop strategic autonomy, and ensure Kyiv can continue resisting for as long as necessary.

French Senator Olivier Cadic said this in an interview with the Guildhall news agency.

How do you assess current U.S. policy toward Ukraine, and what threats does it pose to Europe’s security?

The information published by the Financial Times, if confirmed, is deeply troubling.

Turning military support for Ukraine into a means of pressuring Kyiv would weaken the country under attack rather than force the aggressor to change course.

Europe cannot allow its own security to depend on the goodwill of Washington, especially given that Europe itself is financing the American weapons intended to defend Ukraine.

Can European countries counter Russian aggression without Ukraine as an independent military partner? What consequences would the loss of an independent Ukraine have for Europe’s security?

When I visited Kyiv and Bucha in April 2022, I became deeply convinced that Ukrainians are defending not only their own territory, but also our freedom and security.

A Ukraine stripped of its sovereignty or military capability would seriously weaken all of Europe strategically. Russia could see this as encouragement to continue its aggressive policy.

Europe must therefore accelerate its pursuit of strategic autonomy, strengthen its defense industry, and ensure Ukraine has the means to keep resisting for as long as necessary. This includes, in particular, developing our capabilities in air defense, intelligence, and ammunition production.

Our alliance with the United States remains extremely important. But Europe can no longer make its security depend solely on decisions made in Washington.

And above all, let us remember the obvious: supporting Ukraine’s defense today will always cost less than facing Russia tomorrow, emboldened by its victory.

Thank you for your thoughtful answers and for your time!

Guildhall News Agency, exclusive.