Former Lithuanian Defense Minister and current MEP Rasa Juknevičienė discussed the challenges facing Europe and Ukraine in the coming five years in an exclusive interview.
Support for Ukraine in the European Parliament
The vast majority of the 10th European Parliament supports Ukraine. According to Juknevičienė, the Kremlin uses various disinformation tactics, seeks trusted agents in the European Parliament, and conducts different attacks to influence politically.
Hungarian Presidency of the EU Council
Juknevičienė believes that Hungary’s presidency of the EU Council under Viktor Orban will not cause significant harm. She emphasizes that any negotiations with Russia should be driven by Ukraine’s position, which Europe will support.
First Plenary Session of the European Parliament
During the first plenary session in Strasbourg, MEPs voted on a resolution supporting Ukraine, despite rising pro-Kremlin sentiments. Juknevičienė highlighted that the 10th European Parliament remains committed to supporting Ukraine, and the resolution vote was a clear message of this unity.
Challenges for Europe
Juknevičienė noted that Russia has intensified its hybrid attacks, targeting strategic infrastructure and using disinformation. She cited examples from Lithuania and Poland where suspected Kremlin agents were arrested. The key challenge for Europe is to maintain unity and support Ukraine’s fight for freedom.
Pro-Kremlin Factions in the European Parliament
The presence of the “Patriots for Europe” faction, which opposes support for Ukraine, is concerning but manageable. Juknevičienė views these factions as Kremlin agents, emphasizing the importance of a pro-Ukraine majority in the Parliament.
Orban’s Calls for Negotiations with Moscow
Orban’s recent “peace tour” to Moscow and Beijing raises questions about Hungary’s stance. However, Juknevičienė is optimistic that Hungary’s presidency will not derail European support for Ukraine. She stresses that the conditions for any negotiations with Russia should be determined by Ukraine, with Europe providing strong backing.
Impact of U.S. Elections
Regarding the upcoming U.S. presidential elections, Juknevičienė underscores the importance of European readiness to handle global challenges, regardless of the election outcome. She acknowledges that Europe needs to do more in defense to support global stability.
By maintaining unity and a clear strategy, Europe can effectively support Ukraine and address the threats posed by the Kremlin’s tactics.
