Europe needs Ukraine to prepare for Russian aggression, UK MP

European countries must urgently strengthen their defence partnership with Ukraine, draw on Ukrainian innovations and the tactical experience of its military, and prepare together for possible Russian aggression in Europe and Ukraine, including in maritime areas. Regardless of whether European states can confront Russia on their own, cooperation with Ukraine significantly strengthens their defence capabilities.

Cameron Thomas said this in a written interview with the Guildhall news agency.

— According to the Financial Times, Washington may suspend the PURL mechanism, which allows American weapons to be purchased for Ukraine, unless Kyiv stops striking Russian oil refineries. Such a decision could be part of a broader US withdrawal from its commitments to support Ukraine and ensure European security. How do you assess this US policy, and what threats does it pose to European security?

— I have not read the Financial Times article which, as you describe it, suggests that the US may withdraw from or suspend the mechanism through which Ukraine purchases American weapons.

Such a move should come as no surprise. Moreover, Europe must prepare for a complete geopolitical reversal by Washington.

This would be in keeping with the President’s transactional approach, which stems from Donald Trump’s immature view of the world, as well as his disdain for sensitive and courageous leaders such as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in favour of heartless pseudo-strongmen such as Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Trump sees a united Europe as a threat to his colonial ambitions, just as Putin does.

The 2026 US National Security Strategy explicitly describes the Trump administration’s desire to abandon and weaken the European alliance. This document was being developed at a time when Russia was waging war on the borders of the European Union.

I have previously called Trump the greatest and most immediate threat to NATO, and I stand by that assertion.

Trump considers Putin an ally, while Putin sees Trump as a tool.

— If US support is cut off and Ukraine is forced to make concessions that violate its sovereignty, will European countries be able to withstand Russian aggression without Ukraine as an independent military partner, especially given the further reduction in US commitments?

— If such a reduction in US support ultimately forces Ukraine to make concessions, Europe must urgently accept Ukraine as a defence partner, draw on Ukrainian innovations and tactical experience, and prepare together for imminent Russian aggression in Europe and Ukraine, as well as in maritime areas.

Regardless of whether European countries can confront Russia without Ukraine, the fact is that Europe is stronger with Ukraine.

Thank you for your thoughtful answers and for your time!

Guildhall news agency, exclusive.