The future security and stability of Europe will largely depend on how the war in Ukraine concludes, according to Wolfgang Ischinger, Chairman of the Munich Security Conference (MSC).
Speaking in comments published by the German newspaper Tagesspiegel, Ischinger warned that Russia’s threat to NATO’s eastern flank could intensify following a potential ceasefire in Ukraine.
Ukraine Currently Acting as Europe’s Defensive Shield
Ischinger emphasized that Ukraine is currently playing a critical role in protecting Europe, noting that Russian military forces remain heavily engaged in the conflict.
“As long as Ukraine is defending Europe, the risk is not as high,” Ischinger stated, adding that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s forces are currently tied down in Ukraine and are reportedly losing thousands of soldiers each week.
Ceasefire Could Shift Strategic Balance
The German expert cautioned that a ceasefire could significantly alter the security landscape. According to him, once active combat stops, Russia may have the opportunity to rearm and strengthen its military capabilities, potentially increasing pressure and threats toward NATO countries along the alliance’s eastern border.
“If there is a ceasefire in Ukraine, Putin could continue rearming in peacetime, and the threat to NATO’s eastern members would intensify,” Ischinger warned ahead of the upcoming 62nd Munich Security Conference, scheduled to take place next week in Munich.
Ending Bloodshed Remains a Priority
Despite the strategic concerns, Ischinger stressed that ending the war and stopping the loss of lives in Ukraine remains the most urgent humanitarian priority.
“I wish nothing more than for the bloodshed in Ukraine to end as soon as possible,” he said.
He concluded by underlining the broader geopolitical implications of the conflict, stating that the outcome of the war will shape not only Ukraine’s future but also the long-term fate of Germany and Europe as a whole.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to attend the upcoming Munich Security Conference, where the war and European security are likely to dominate discussions.
