Avoiding political gains from violent acts is essential for Putin.
The renewed peace negotiations regarding Ukraine, which began in 2025, have been marked by complex discussions involving the US, Russia, and European actors. The negotiations have seen stark differences in demands among the parties, with Russia insisting on recognition of its claim over occupied Ukrainian lands, among other demands, while Ukraine has called for a full Russian troop withdrawal and robust security guarantees against further aggression.
In a statement issued by the Free Democratic Party on August 14, 2025, Dr. Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann MEP, Chair of the Defense Committee of the European Parliament, has highlighted the critical need for credible security guarantees to Ukraine. The statement reaffirms Europe's stance against accommodating Putin's violence and emphasises the importance of self-determination for Ukraine.
Ukraine, a sovereign state that has been a victim of Russian aggression for years, insists on its borders being discussed with its involvement. Discussing Ukraine's borders without Ukraine's involvement denies it the right to self-determination, the statement warns.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs have confirmed that Russia will not accept Western-style security guarantees for Ukraine unless Moscow’s own security concerns are addressed as central to any deal. This stance reflects the deep impasse characterising the 2025 negotiations, with Russia insisting on guarantees that reinforce its security interests and veto power.
European countries, on the other hand, insist on security guarantees for Ukraine backed by a "coalition of the willing" providing troops in Ukraine to enforce a ceasefire. European leaders have emphasised the need to provide Ukraine with credible security assurances so President Zelenskyy can secure domestic support for any deal, prior to any direct bilateral talks with Putin.
Dr. Strack-Zimmermann's position aligns with the European stance, demanding enforceable protections to prevent further Russian aggression. The statement also emphasises the importance of self-determination for Ukraine and warns against sending the signal that military blackmail works. Putin should not gain political advantage from his violence, the statement asserts.
The Crimea, the Donbass, and other occupied territories belong to Ukraine under international law, the statement reiterates. Europe must continue to stand united and determined alongside Ukraine - militarily, economically, and politically. The statement concludes by expressing concern about discussing Ukraine's borders without Ukraine's involvement.
The statement was accompanied by a photo of Dr. Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann MEP, underscoring her ongoing efforts surrounding these negotiations and the critical role she plays in defense and European Parliament discussions around security. As of now, despite intensive discussions, Russia continues to reject key elements such as Western security guarantees and a ceasefire demand, making progress difficult.
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