The current negotiations between the United States and Russia regarding Ukraine’s future are prompting a stark call for European action. Former high-ranking diplomat Wolfgang Ischinger is advocating for a distinctly European peace plan, arguing that the continent’s voice is being consistently sidelined in a conflict that fundamentally impacts its security.
Speaking to “Der Stern”, Ischinger expressed concern that European perspectives have been neglected throughout the process, largely due to a reluctance to assert leadership. He noted the historical hesitation to develop a unified position, citing the rationale that it would be perceived as a form of guardianship over Ukraine, a stance Europeans previously avoided.
However, Ischinger now contends that this reticence has resulted in Europe’s marginalization by both Washington and Moscow. He criticized the perception that European discourse surrounding the conflict resembles trade negotiations rather than the profound implications of a major geopolitical war. “We are being ignored because we still act as if this is about customs union negotiations, not about war and peace” he stated.
A significant point of contention and a focal point for Ischinger’s proposal, revolves around the fate of frozen Russian Central Bank assets. He sharply criticised the public and often fragmented debates surrounding their potential use. He advocated for a decisive, unified European approach, insisting on a swift resolution amongst the 27 member states, silencing all objections-even those from figures like the Belgian Prime Minister-before presenting a clear ultimatum to Russia. The ultimatum would threaten the injection of a further €140 billion for Ukraine if Russia does not fulfill specific, predetermined concessions.
Ischinger suggests this firm and coordinated action could shift Russia’s calculus. “If we proceeded in this manner, many in Moscow would say, ‘Okay, perhaps we should call Brussels, Berlin, Paris, or London'” he suggested.
Conversely, he lamented what he portrayed as an embarrassing public spectacle witnessed by Russian analysts. “The Europeans are putting on a public brawl in front of all Russian analysts” he stated. This, he argues, emboldens Moscow and, ultimately, contributes to Europe’s exclusion from the core diplomatic efforts. “They say, ‘The Europeans can’t manage it,’ and in that sense, we Europeans are partly to blame for standing on the sidelines”. The former diplomat’s critique highlights a growing frustration within European circles concerning the perceived lack of strategic agency and a need for a more assertive and unified approach to the unfolding crisis.