Borrell emphasized that in the confrontation with the Russian Federation, Ukrainians are also fighting for the freedom of Europe.
Serious problems await the EU in the near future due to sanctions against Russia, however, the bloc must be ready to pay the price of freedom. This was stated by the head of EU diplomacy, Josep Borrell, in an interview with Krone.
“We are limiting Russia's economic opportunities. As long as Russia's economy depends on oil and gas, they will need our technologies. Russia has problems. And, of course, we will face serious problems in the short term. It cannot be denied that gas prices are rising. But we must be ready to pay the price for freedom,” Borrell said.
He also emphasized that the war of the Russian Federation against Ukraine is not only a struggle of Ukrainians, but also a war for the freedom of Europe. Borrell added that the EU is facing an energy crisis.
“This is the biggest crisis in Europe. First the debt crisis, then the pandemic, now energy. The only solution: unity,” he noted.
In addition, the diplomat emphasized that the world faced a crisis of democracy.
“Authoritarian regimes are on the rise. The old empires are coming back. Russia wants the return of tsarism, China and Turkey have imperial sentiments. Here, too, a solution can only be achieved through unity. Everyone does not survive on their own,” Borrell said.
The head of EU diplomacy also told what has changed for the EU as a result of Russia's attack on Ukraine.
“For us in Europe, the war was once far away Now drama, tragedy, suffering are returning,” he said.
In addition, Borrell explained why the EU had not previously paid enough attention to the warnings of Poland and the Baltic states about Russian aggression.
“History and geography are of great importance in understanding the crisis. Geographically and historically, Lithuania is more concerned about Russia than Spain to the south. She is worried about North Africa. But in Europe, we should not approach challenges separately, but together,” the diplomat replied.
Borrell also answered a question about whether he considers the EU a global superpower.
“From an economic and moral point of view, yes. From the military – no. The world has become a dangerous place. EU members must understand that if necessary we must defend ourselves and that we need the tools to do so,” Borrell said.
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