Amid the escalation in the Middle East, Vladimir Putin is using the international crisis as a convenient background for continuing attacks on Ukraine, and Europe must respond by strengthening its energy independence, economic identity and defense potential.
This was stated by Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, head of the European Parliament’s Security and Defense Committee.
“Let’s take a look at what is still happening in Ukraine. Do you hear anything from Mr Putin? He is the one taking advantage of what is happening in the Middle East while continuing to attack Ukraine.”
“It was Iran that has supported Russia with Shahed drones since day one. It was Iran that unchained Hamas to attack Israel — with dire consequences for Gaza. It is Iran that has been pushing Hezbollah over and over again, destabilizing Lebanon. And it was Iran that sent the Houthis to block sea routes in the Red Sea.”
“This is not just about the Strait of Hormuz. We see a whole system of how we, and especially Europeans, are being led on a leash there.”
“Europe must free up its economy. Europe must finally open the capital market and allow free trade. Europe must become more energy independent without stifling its own economy. And we need a defense alliance.”
“If we are not ready to take on this role, we will not be able to lead Europe into the future.”
Earlier, in a comment to Guildhall, Sergey Danilov, Deputy Director of the Center for Middle East Studies, said that the Russian Federation is interested in continuing the conflict in the Middle East as long as possible.
Только главные новости в нашем Telegram, Facebook и GoogleNews!
Tweet