As Vladimir Putin’s forces continue to pound the Donbas at terrible human cost for the people of Ukraine, there are worrying signs of cracks in Western resolve.
The response of some in the West, notably former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, has been to suggest that Ukraine should be prepared now to cede territory to Russia. The idea being that Putin’s forces have
made gains in eastern Ukraine, this new reality must be recognised and lives can be saved by ending the war sooner.
Certainly the desire to end the war and spare the lives of yet more civilians is the right one. But the role of the West has been and must continue to be supporting the Ukrainian people in their battle for self-determination. As long as they are willing and able to fight, we should support them.
When peace talks take place — as they must — Ukraine should be in the strongest possible position and Russia the weakest. That will require keeping up maximum pressure through continued military assistance to Kyiv and the severest sanctions on Moscow.
The acceptance of Russian occupation of eastern Ukraine or even the annexation of territory would reward Putin for his war of aggression. Furthermore, what is to prevent him from taking the time to repair his forces before attempting another assault on the capital?
For Ukrainians, this remains a fight for national survival. We must not waver in our support in this shared endeavour.
