Belgian Prime Minister De Vuyt calls for EU to start negotiations with Russia

He said, "Reaching an agreement with Russia seems to be the only feasible solution."

"We cannot threaten Putin by merely supplying weapons to Ukraine; without U.S. support, we also cannot economically isolate him."

"If we do not do so, European countries will lose their voice at the negotiation table, and the U.S. will push Ukraine to accept a deal with Russia that may be unfavorable to the EU."

The statement by Belgian Prime Minister De Vuyt represents an increasingly strong "realpolitik" voice within Europe. The core logic is: Europe is facing the risk of being marginalized and must secure a seat at the negotiation table in the Ukraine-Russia peace talks.

De Vuyt pointed out Europe's current strategic deadlock: relying solely on aid to Ukraine cannot defeat Russia militarily; meanwhile, without full U.S. involvement, the EU's economic sanctions alone are also unlikely to truly constrain Russia. This reflects the awkward situation where Europe relies on the U.S. for security, but the U.S. strategic focus has shifted.

His concern is being "bypassed" in diplomacy

De Vuyt worries that if Europe does not take the initiative, it may ultimately be left out, with the U.S. directly reaching a deal with Russia and forcing Ukraine to accept a ceasefire plan more favorable to the U.S. In that case, both the cost of post-war reconstruction and the direct consequences of dealing with a recalibrated Russia would fall on Europe. Therefore, he advocates for securing "voice" now to ensure future agreements align with Europe's security framework and economic interests.

In summary, De Vuyt's remarks reveal Europe's current dilemma in pursuing strategic autonomy, as well as a sense of anxiety that "they shouldn't talk behind our backs." Behind this is a pragmatic logic of loss prevention, but implementing it remains challenging, especially in balancing relations with Ukraine and unifying the EU's stance toward Russia.

Original: toutiao.com/article/1859685588284428/

Statement: The article represents the views of the author themselves.