For EU members, price of ending war with Russia to be much higher than that of preventing it - Kuleba

This was stated by Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba during a phone call with the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, on the security situation around Ukraine, Ukrinform reports referring to MFA Ukraine’s press service.

The call took place in the context of active diplomatic efforts by Ukraine, the United States, and the European Union to prevent further escalation by Russia and on the eve of the EU Council meeting on January 24.

"Every country in the European Union must understand that no matter how high the price of deterring Russia, the price of ending a new war will be much higher. The only right strategy is to show resolve and act as a united front with Ukraine," Kuleba said.

The parties discussed a comprehensive Russia deterrence package, including the drafting of tough EU sanctions against Russia in case of further escalation.

Borrell briefed Kuleba on the outcome of last week's meeting of EU foreign ministers in the Gimnich format and reaffirmed his counterpart that there was a clear understanding in the European Union that only a strong deterrence package would stop Russia.

Kuleba stressed that, despite the increased level of threat, the situation is under control. He stressed that there is no reason to panic and destabilize the situation within the country or create threats to its financial stability. Instead, Ukraine in 2021 achieved record-high economic indicators: the highest level of dollar GDP since regaining independence and a ten-year record in terms of exports.

Borrell agreed that one of Russia's current goals is to destabilize Ukraine internally, in particular, to affect economic and financial processes. The head of European diplomacy assured Kuleba of the EU’s readiness to continue supporting Ukraine in these areas.

The head of Ukrainian diplomacy informed the EU High Representative about the recent massive cyber attacks on Ukrainian government agencies. Borrell confirmed that the European Union stood ready to support Ukraine in its efforts to systematically strengthen cybersecurity. The interlocutors agreed to set up an appropriate process of interaction.

The parties also agreed to pursue close contacts.

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