In About a Hundred Words on the Ramstein Meeting
It has been nearly one year since Russia invaded Ukraine. Although the Ukrainian Armed Forces have made great strides against Russia and their proxy forces, more work remains in theatre operations to free all occupied territory. With the upcoming Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting on January 20th, GLOBSEC asks experts from Ukraine, Germany, and Poland; what policy arguments can be made to persuade sceptical allies to start delivering more western-made tanks and longer-range artillery to Kyiv?
Dr. Lada L. Roslycky, Founder and Managing Partner, Black Trident Defense and Security Consulting Group
Everyone adhering to the notion that any country on Earth would give up its entire nuclear arsenal and over 245 kilograms of highly enriched uranium in exchange for empty promises is either dimwitted or a supporter of corruption as statecraft. In the midst of constructing a new global security order, the manner in which civilized nations protect Ukraine today will have lasting effects on the conditions human beings will be living in far into the future. Ukraine’s skies should have been closed a long time ago. Delivering tanks and longer-range missiles is not only the international community’s right, it is part of its obligation to prevent genocide and restore order. Ending the kremlin’s [sic] self-proclaimed Messianic war against life, liberty, and freedom requires leaders to bite the bullet, understand integrity hurts sometimes, and do what is ethical and just. The rewards, both tangible and intangible, will be great.
Dr. Aylin Matlé, Research Fellow, Center for Security and Defense, German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP)
In concert with other European allies, Germany should prepare the delivery of western-made tanks, first and foremost the German Leopard 2, quickly. Providing Ukraine with additional military equipment that is urgently needed on the battlefield in the weeks and months ahead will help the assaulted country to not only further defend itself against Russia but also to regain occupied territory. Further Western military aid thus enables Ukraine to stand a better chance to push back Russia militarily. Altering the conflict costs for Russia and thereby lowering the prospects of a military victory increases the likelihood of Moscow making concessions and paving the way for serious negotiations, which Kyiv should enter from a position of strength.
Jacqueline Sirotová, Fellow and Project Coordinator, Future of Security Programme
The basic argument is that the delivery of arms signals a commitment to the security and stability of the region and demonstrates support for Ukraine’s government and people in a way that statements no longer can. Apart from that, military aid can be seen as a form of assurance to the Eastern flank countries and contribute to the interoperability of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The delivery of tanks and artillery will contribute to Ukrainian capabilities and their compatibility with the Alliance. Combined with the provided training, Ukrainian troops are becoming one of the most professional armies. Hence, supporting Ukraine means supporting the Alliance’s security and avoiding the spillover of the war.