Europe to launch international commission for Ukraine war damages • FRANCE 24 English

Summary

Ukraine, alongside 34 other countries, has approved a compensation plan for damages caused by the Russian invasion, facilitated by the Council of Europe. As European leaders prepare for a crucial summit, financial support for Ukraine remains a central issue, with polls showing differing opinions across countries. While some European nations, like France and Germany, are hesitant to continue aid, the UK, US, and Canada lean towards maintaining or increasing support. Meanwhile, there are growing concerns in Eastern Europe about future Russian threats and the need for stronger defense spending to secure the continent's safety.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ukraine and 34 other countries have formally approved the creation of a compensation body for damages caused by Russia's invasion, but the funding source remains unclear.
• 😀 The Council of Europe has facilitated the International Claims Commission, allowing Ukrainians to seek compensation for damages, losses, or injuries since February 2022.
• 😀 European leaders will meet in Brussels to discuss financial support for Ukraine, which is expected to be a major agenda item.
• 😀 A poll by Politico reveals that public opinion in France and Germany leans towards scaling back financial aid to Ukraine, while the US, UK, and Canada favor continuing support.
• 😀 The financial struggle in Europe is seen as an existential moment, with European leaders trying to prove their relevance on the global stage amid criticism from figures like Donald Trump.
• 😀 Europe is considering providing up to 210 billion euros in loans to Ukraine, with a significant portion intended for military and governmental needs, as Ukraine faces a projected €72 billion shortfall in the next fiscal year.
• 😀 If Ukraine doesn't secure financial aid, it risks bankruptcy by next spring, making this financial support crucial for both its survival and its negotiating position in peace talks.
• 😀 The survey results indicate that support for Ukraine's financial and military aid is divided, with far-right political groups in Europe showing stronger opposition to further aid.
• 😀 European leaders are also concerned about 'refugee fatigue,' as increasing numbers of people in Germany, in particular, are growing weary of hosting displaced Ukrainians.
• 😀 The Finnish Prime Minister warns that a peace deal with Ukraine could lead to a shift in Russian military focus towards NATO's eastern flank, posing a future security threat in 3 to 5 years.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the International Claims Commission mentioned in the transcript?

The International Claims Commission allows Ukrainians to seek compensation for damages, loss, or injury caused by the Russian invasion that began in February 2022. It is a platform facilitated by the Council of Europe to address the financial consequences of the war.

What financial support is Europe planning to provide Ukraine, according to the transcript?

Europe is planning to provide up to 210 billion euros in loans to Ukraine, aimed at helping the country finance its government and military needs over the next two years. This is necessary to prevent Ukraine from going bankrupt in the near future.

Why is the financial support for Ukraine so important for Europe, according to Doug Havis?

Doug Havis explains that the financial support is crucial for Europe’s survival as it seeks to maintain its relevance in the search for peace in Ukraine and to strengthen its geopolitical position. The loans are vital for Ukraine’s survival, both militarily and economically.

What does the Politico poll reveal about public opinion on continuing financial aid to Ukraine?

The Politico poll shows a divide in public opinion. In countries like France and Germany, many respondents favor scaling back financial aid to Ukraine, while in English-speaking countries like the US, UK, and Canada, the majority supports maintaining or increasing aid.

How does the far-right political movement in Europe relate to the desire to scale back aid to Ukraine?

The poll indicates a correlation between far-right political movements in Europe, such as France's National Rally and Germany's Alternative for Germany, and support for reducing aid to Ukraine. Far-right supporters are more likely to want to decrease both financial and military support for Ukraine.

What is 'refugee fatigue,' and how is it affecting European countries?

Refugee fatigue refers to the growing reluctance among European countries, especially Germany, to accept more refugees displaced by the war in Ukraine. This has led to increasing opposition to further immigration from Ukraine, contributing to the broader reluctance to provide aid.

What specific financial shortfall is Ukraine facing in the next fiscal year?

Ukraine is facing a €72 billion shortfall in the next fiscal year, a critical gap that must be addressed to prevent the country from going bankrupt as early as next spring.

What future geopolitical concern does the Finnish Prime Minister raise regarding Russia and NATO?

The Finnish Prime Minister, Petri Orpo, warns that if a peace deal is reached in Ukraine, Russia may focus its military efforts on the eastern flank of Europe, threatening countries like Estonia, Lithuania, and Poland. These countries are already increasing their defense spending in response.

What role do countries like Estonia, Lithuania, and Poland play in Europe’s defense strategy?

These countries, which share a border with Russia or Belarus, are on the front lines of Europe’s defense against potential Russian aggression. They are expected to spend over 5% of their GDP on defense in the next year, surpassing NATO’s defense targets to ensure their security.

How does Europe’s financial support to Ukraine relate to its role in the peace negotiations?

Europe’s financial support to Ukraine is not just about helping Ukraine’s survival but also ensuring that Europe has a voice in the peace negotiations. If Europe fails to provide this support, it risks being sidelined in the diplomatic process, which could lead to a diminished role in shaping a lasting peace in Ukraine.