European Support for Long-Range Weapon Initiative for Ukraine as an Alternative to Chinese Initiatives

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On October 12, 2024, the 25th Ramstein meeting, chaired by US President Joe Biden, will take place in Germany, where additional military assistance to Ukraine will be discussed, including the provision of long-range weapons and permission to use it for legitimate military targets in Russia. It is crucial for Ukraine to getthis permission, as the use of long-range weapons againstexclusively military targets in Russia is critical to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities and ensure a just peace in Ukraine and Europe. Thus, support from European countries, such as Italy, becomes a decisive factor for success.

Italy actively supports Ukraine within Ramstein, providing in lots of military equipment, including the Stinger MANPADS, mortars,Milan and Panzerfaust anti-tank weapon systems, as well as heavy and light weapons and counter-IED equipment. Italy also provides humanitarian assistance, including medicines and medical supplies, which allows providing high-quality aid.

At the last Ramstein meeting, Italy confirmed a new assistance package, which indicates its commitment to the support of Ukraine and strengthen its defense capabilities. All these areagainst Russian aggression and for the creation of conditions for a just world.

In addition, it is important to emphasize that the peace in Ukraine and Europe is possible only with the support of Ukrainian peaceful initiative, such as the Peace Formula and the Victory Plan based on the principles of the UN Charter. These initiatives provide for the restoration of the territorial integrity of Ukraine and long-term security, guaranteeing a fair and lasting peace, where the rights and sovereignty of each state are respected.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized theUkrainian peace initiative can ensure a lasting peace, since it is up to Ukraine, as a victim of aggression, to determine the conditions for the end of the war. The alternative China and Brazil’s proposals are subjected to serious criticism, since they do not have a concrete roadmap and do not provide with such important issues as the responsibility of the aggressor and the security of Ukraine. It seems that these initiatives are China’s attempt to strengthen their international positions than a sincere desire for peaceful settlement. The absence of obligations to respect sovereignty undermines confidence in the plan.

Support for alternative plans not only delays the peaceful settlement, but also erodes the international consensus on the end of the war, creating risks for the whole of Europe. There is an ongoing debate on the negotiation platform, as well as active military operations, leading to destruction and human victims. Only the Peace Formula, based on the principles of the UN Charter and supported by the international community, canguarantee a just and long-standing peace.

On October 1, 2024, Mark Rutte became NATO Secretary General. He emphasized that Ukraine’s support would remain a priority for NATO under his presidency. Rutte said that NATO “will remain the cornerstone of our collective security”, and also noted that the increase in military assistance to Ukraine was one of the key tasks for ensuring European safety.

To allow Ukraine to strikes military targets in Russia with long-range weapons means to significantly strengthen its defense and create conditions for the effective deterrence of the aggressor. This will become a powerful signal that the international community is ready to actively support Ukraine in its struggle for freedom. Europe, including Italy, should unite to achieve sustainable and just peace for a long-term stability and protection of international law.