For Europe to back Ukraine, it must be willing to "pay"
Date
8/13/2022 8:08:47 AM
(MENAFN) According to the head of EU foreign policy, EU citizens should be prepared to pay the cost associated with aiding Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
As per Josep Borrell, a Russian victory would be a setback for Brussels.
“We must explain to our citizens that this is not someone else’s war,” the diplomat stated in an interview released by newspaper El Pais on Thursday. “The public must be willing to pay the price of supporting Ukraine and for preserving the unity of the EU.
“We are at war. These things are not free,” he added, acknowledging that the cost should be distributed “equitably.”
Borrell was referring to the rising cost of living and possible power shortages that European countries might experience as a result of their decision to punish Russia for attacking Ukraine by ceasing to purchase its energy. In order to be better prepared for this winter's peak demand, Brussels wants member states to reduce consumption. However, some nations have resisted the suggestion.
Spain, Borrell's native country, was one of the opponents. Last month, Teresa Ribera, the energy minister, stated that the best way to handle the crisis was not by "imposing unfair sacrifices." According to her, "Spaniards have not lived beyond our means from an energy point of view," unlike citizens of some other countries.
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