Preparing for a Russia beyond Putin, according to Austria's Chancellor Stocker, as stated on our platform
In an exclusive interview at the EPP Congress in Valencia, our intrepid reporter Sandor Zsiros sat down with Austria's new center-right chancellor, Christian Stocker, to discuss Europe's future with Russia, energy security, migration, and populism. Here's what the sharp-tongued Austrian leader had to say.
Russia and Energy
Stocker made it clear that the EU should maintain sanctions on Russia and diversify its energy sources due to Moscow's use of energy as a weapon. "Energy blackmail? That's our reality," Stocker declared. "We can't rely solely on one supplier, especially when they hold the keys to the gasworks."
The chancellor called for EU countries to become energy independent from Russia, and Brussels is considering plans to cut off European dependence on Russian energy imports entirely. "Russia might be our close neighbor, but we can't turn a blind eye to their coercive tactics," Stocker emphasized.
The Future of Russia
Stocker acknowledged that it's essential to recognize the difference between Russia and Putin, but prepare for the future with Putin no longer in power. "Russia is more than just Putin," Stocker asserted. "We must be ready for the day when he's gone - and it'll come sooner than we think."
The chancellor also warned against lifting economic sanctions on Russia, as a possible truce in Ukraine remains out of reach. "Let's face it, there's no sign of peace talks right now," Stocker admitted. "But a lasting ceasefire or agreement must respect Ukraine's terms - and that's not happening right now."
Rearming Europe
Stocker backed making Europe a fortress once again, as the post-Cold War era's security guarantees crumble. "We can't be naive anymore," he said. "War may be a relic, but never underestimate the need for strong defenses."
Austria is participating in the EU's joint defense procurement program and will double its defense spending to 2% of GDP. However, joining NATO is not on the table for Austria. "NATO is not an option for us right now," Stocker explained. "We'd rather focus on cost-effective defense solutions that let us retain control, like joint procurement programs."
Managing Migration
On the issue of migration, Stocker identified the need for a secure external border and a system for returning migrants without the right to stay in Europe. "We're not building walls, but we need order and control," Stocker clarified. "We want to give people a chance for a safe, legal future, but those who come here illegally must go back."
The chancellor made it clear that 100% of migrants without valid papers should be deported. "We can't tolerate lawlessness," he asserted. "Those who break our laws should face the consequences."
Sources:
- "Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker on EU-Russia Relations, Energy, and Migration"
- "Austria's Neutrality and Defense Posture in a Changing Europe"
- In light of the ongoing EU-Russia relations, Christian Stocker, Austria's chancellor, emphasizes the importance of maintaining sanctions on Russia and diversifying energy sources to combat energy blackmail.
- The future of Russia beyond Putin's tenure is a concern for Stocker, who urges Europe to prepare and support a Russia that is more than just Putin.
- Stocker advocates for a rearming of Europe, arguing that strong defenses are needed as security guarantees from the post-Cold War era are eroding.
- On the topic of migration, Stocker advocates for a secure external border and a system for returning migrants without the right to stay in Europe, and insists on a zero-tolerance policy for lawlessness.
