Roberta Metsola: EU Should Play Central Role In Ukraine Peace Talks

Europeans want to act faster and more decisively.

The EU will have to play a central role when it comes to peace negotiations. But to act from a position of strength, we need to deliver when it comes to our defense capabilities, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.

“I believe that a just and lasting peace in Ukraine is also in the United States' interest. No one wants to see Putin in Kyiv,” Metsola said, commenting on US statements suggesting that Europe has no place at the negotiating table.

Regarding security guarantees for Ukraine, the European Parliament President believes that the international community must present a united front, with Europe bearing a special responsibility. She reminded that the EU has provided €135 billion in aid to ensure Ukraine’s financial stability and defense — more than any other ally.

“Ukraine’s security is Europe’s security, which is why the EU will have to play a central role when it comes to peace negotiations. I think this is widely recognized. But in order to act from a position of strength, we need to deliver when it comes to our defence capabilities. If we are serious about our security, our financial commitments must match the threat we face,” she stated.

Metsola also added that last year, Russia’s defense budget surged 42% to EUR 430 billion, while Europe’s, including the UK, rose just 12 percent to EUR 425 billion.

“Our voters already made it clear in the elections last June. They want us to act faster, with determination, and, above all, with self-confidence,” emphasized the European Parliament President.

Metsola also commented on NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte's statement that Europe must “fight its way” to the negotiating table. According to her, this once again underscores the need for greater European defense spending and self-confidence.

“Now, we must demonstrate leadership and, most importantly, unity. We have shown this unity when we unanimously adopted fifteen sanction packages against Russia, and we must show it again. We are only credible and strong if we speak with one voice,” believes the European Parliament President.

She stated that as an EU candidate country, Ukraine’s future is directly tied to ours, so the EU has a profound stake in ensuring its security and stability.

“If we succeed in standing together, we will be a powerful partner at the negotiating table,” clarified Metsola.

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