Do not repeat the mistakes we made in Kosovo - Main contents
During today's debate on the upcoming European Council dealing with the situation in Ukraine, ALDE Group leader Guy Verhofstadt called upon the government leaders to show unity, strength and determination:
"European countries have to stand together. We cannot afford the shame of Kosovo again. We cannot expect America to again solve the problems we face on our European soil."
"Today's negotiations in Minsk will be crucial for Ukraine's future. If we fail to find a sustainable solution, we know what the outcome will be: a new frozen conflict in our neighbourhood."
Verhofstadt stressed that three conditions are necessary to give the negotiations in Minsk a fair chance:
"First, Europe has to help Ukraine with non-lethal assistance: satellite images, intelligence and cyber defence."
"Secondly, the leaders should decide to impose new economic sanctions against Russia immediately."
"Thirdly, we have to step up coordination with the US. We will only have real impact if we are united."
Hans van Baalen (VVD, Netherlands), ALDE spokesman on Ukraine and Russia, adds that Putin has to understand that the negotiations in Minsk are not only crucial for the future of Ukraine but also for the future of Russia: "Russia can choose between a return to legality or to become an outlaw in international politics."