Ukraine will face a “forever war” unless Europe steps up pressure on Russia and deploys troops, weapons and drone shield on NATO territory to protect Kyiv, former NATO Secretary General, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, has said.
“We have to help the Ukrainian people protect themselves against Russian missiles and drones by building an air shield helping the Ukrainians shoot down Russian missiles and drones. NATO countries neighbouring Ukraine can be the location for a Nato-based air defence and missile system,” Rasmussen said in an interview with Euronews. He explained that Russian leader Vladimir Putin had no incentive to engage in peace negotiations as long as he wins in the battlefield.
"So to change his calculus, we have to help the Ukrainians much more, and we have to put more pressure," he pointed out.
The former NATO chief said Germany must supply Ukraine with Taurus missiles, while NATO allies must boost weapons deliveries to Ukraine to help Kyiv defend itself as Russia’s invasion enters the fourth year.
Rasmussen also commented on Washington’s change of policy towards Russia-Ukraine war, stressing that the US must be more “unpredictable” on this matter. “I didn't appreciate the red carpet reception of President Putin in Alaska when he and President Trump met," he said, while also welcoming Donald Trump’s decision to impose sanctions on two major Russian oil companies.
