Kathrine Frich
History often warns that patterns of aggression rarely end unless something forces them to change.
European leaders, mindful that past conflicts have re-emerged when trust was misplaced, are approaching current peace discussions with caution.
Even as talks over the war in Ukraine continue, many in Europe argue that any agreement with Moscow must account for a long record of instability and repeated violations of neighbouring borders.
A warning drawn from history
Speaking at a meeting of OSCE member states in Vienna, EU High Representative Kaja Kallas urged her counterparts to ensure that any settlement with Russia prevents future territorial aggression.
Her remarks, reported by Evropeiskaia Pravda, took into account the lessons that shaped Europe’s post-war institutions.
Kallas said the OSCE itself was created because of the continent’s experiences with conflict and expansionism.
“Over the past 100 years, Russia has invaded at least 19 countries, many of which are represented at this table, and some even three or four times. None of these 19 countries has ever invaded or attacked Russia,” she told delegates.
Pressure over concessions
Kallas argued that peace in Ukraine must not hinge on Kyiv surrendering ground but on changing Moscow’s calculus.
She said the central question is “how to obtain concessions from Russia so that it stops aggression and loses the desire to change borders by force.”
According to her, the EU intends to maintain its stance, insisting that sustained pressure and expanded support for Ukraine are key to shifting the balance.
“It is important to reduce Russia’s ability to finance its military machine,” she added.
European concerns deepen
Other ministers echoed her assessment of the wider dangers linked to Russia’s behaviour.
Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský cautioned that Moscow is attempting to exploit the war to divide Europe from the United States.
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski went further, saying that today’s Russia is “more repressive and aggressive than the Soviet Union was in the 1970s.”
The comments reflected a shared belief that any peace deal must guard against repeating past miscalculations about Kremlin intentions.
Sources: Digi24; Evropeiskaia Pravda
