Russia-Ukraine war | Moscow: Attacking Ukraine from all sides

The war between Russia and Ukraine, which began in 2014 with the annexation of Crimea by Moscow, has entered a new phase of escalation in 2023. Russia claims that its troops are advancing in every section of the Ukrainian front, despite observers seeing little movement. The front lines have barely shifted in 2023 but fighting has remained intense. The latest major flashpoint is the nearly encircled industrial town of Avdiivka, where Ukraine says it is fending off assaults.

To know more about the situation on the ground and the diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, WION’s Palki Sharma spoke to Joachim Bitterlich, former German Ambassador to NATO and Professor at ESCP Europe. Bitterlich has extensive experience in European and international affairs, having served as a close adviser to former Chancellor Helmut Kohl and as a diplomat in Algeria, Brussels, Madrid and Andorra.

In this interview, Bitterlich shared his insights on the following topics:

• The reasons behind Russia’s aggression and its objectives in Ukraine
• The role of the Minsk agreements and the Normandy format in the peace process
• The impact of the war on the European security architecture and the transatlantic relations
• The challenges and opportunities for dialogue and cooperation between the EU, NATO, the US and Russia
• The prospects for a political solution and a lasting peace in the region

Bitterlich argued that Russia is pursuing a strategy of “hybrid warfare” that combines military, political, economic and informational pressure on Ukraine. He said that Russia wants to prevent Ukraine from becoming a stable and prosperous democracy that is integrated with the West. He also said that Russia is testing the unity and resolve of the EU and NATO, and trying to undermine the credibility and leadership of the US.

Bitterlich stressed the importance of the Minsk agreements and the Normandy format, which involve Germany, France, Ukraine and Russia, as the main frameworks for dialogue and negotiation. He said that these platforms have helped to reduce the violence and to maintain a fragile ceasefire, but they have not been able to address the root causes of the conflict and the political status of the occupied territories. He called for more engagement and pressure from the international community, especially the US, to support the implementation of the Minsk agreements and to hold Russia accountable for its actions.

Bitterlich also highlighted the impact of the war on the European security architecture and the transatlantic relations. He said that the war has exposed the weaknesses and divisions within the EU and NATO, and has challenged the principles and values that underpin the European order. He said that the war has also strained the relationship between the US and its European allies, especially after the withdrawal from Afghanistan and the AUKUS deal. He urged for more coordination and solidarity among the Western partners, and for a common strategy and vision to deal with Russia.

Bitterlich acknowledged the difficulties and limitations of dialogue and cooperation between the EU, NATO, the US and Russia, given the lack of trust and the divergent interests and perspectives. However, he also pointed out some areas of common concern and potential cooperation, such as climate change, energy security, arms control, counter-terrorism and regional stability. He said that dialogue and cooperation are necessary to avoid further escalation and confrontation, and to explore the possibilities for a political solution and a lasting peace in the region.

Bitterlich concluded by expressing his hope and optimism for the future of Ukraine and its people, who have shown remarkable resilience and courage in the face of adversity. He said that Ukraine deserves the support and solidarity of the international community, and that it has a right to choose its own destiny and to pursue its European aspirations. He said that peace and stability in Ukraine are essential for peace and stability in Europe and beyond.