Czech President Suggests Temporary Loss of Part of Ukraine to Preserve Its Independence
Czech President Petr Pavel has expressed a nuanced and pragmatic view regarding the possibility that Ukraine may temporarily lose parts of its territory during its ongoing struggle for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In an interview with the British BBC, he stated that even with the full support of Western allies, Ukraine currently lacks the capacity to swiftly recapture all occupied regions without incurring massive human losses and destruction.
Therefore, he suggested that a temporary occupation and territorial loss might be a necessary concession to ensure Ukraine’s survival as an independent and sovereign nation.
Pavel emphasized that preserving the unity of the Ukrainian people and the integrity of its state is paramount, and sometimes making such sacrifices is justified.
Moreover, he underscored that no Western nation recognizes the legitimacy of Russia’s annexation of Ukrainian lands.
He also noted that demanding Ukraine to immediately regain all lost territories is unrealistic.
According to Pavel, Western countries should concentrate on imposing stronger economic sanctions and exerting political and economic pressure on Russia, which he believes will be the most effective way to bring Moscow to negotiations.
He argued that Russia’s struggling economy cannot withstand prolonged restrictions, making sanctions a powerful tool in forcing diplomatic talks.
Pavel is convinced that such measures will eventually compel Moscow to engage in negotiations, although he noted that the ongoing conflict could last for years if no effective resolution is found.
He previously mentioned that the current pattern of warfare might prolong the conflict for many years unless strategic diplomatic solutions are pursued.