In Ukraine, the front lines have been rigid for some time. Experts expected this, because harsh winter conditions make larger troop movements difficult.
But Russia is also expected to prepare a new offensive – and here comes the debate over Western state-of-the-art tanks for Ukraine.
After continued pressure from EU partners and the domestic opposition, Germany has decided to deliver its own Leopard 2 tanks to Kyiv and has given the green light to all countries wishing to do the same.
Is this too late? New German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius: “I have no indication that it might be too late. We will deliver the Leopards by the end of March and, as far as I know, it will be soon.”
The decision was taken personally by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
The reason why it took so long has been the subject of intense speculation. The prevailing opinion was that Scholz needed time to attune a skeptical public to his policies.
A large anti-war constituency would never forgive him for being too eager to arm Ukraine.
In an interview, Scholz vehemently rejected domestic political considerations.
Scholz acted in close coordination with the United States. Washington believes that arming Ukraine with advanced weapons could be a major turning point in the war.
US President Joe Biden: “The US will deliver 31 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, the equivalent of a Ukrainian battalion. The Pentagon recommended this so that Ukraine can defend its territory and achieve its strategic objectives.”
How does Ukraine feel about this? Is this final round of weaponry considered a milestone? Do Ukrainians consider them enough?
There is also an interview with former President Petro Poroshenko, who headed the country from 2015 to 2019.
Euronews: Germany and other countries have announced the supply of Leopard tanks. Will this change the situation on the battlefield?
Poroshenko: I think that will improve the situation. Definitive. Of course, it depends on the number of tanks, whether it is a tank company or several tank brigades. These are different things. But delivery is no longer a game changer. Moreover, the delivery should have taken place six months ago, when Russia was weaker than it is today. Coupled with armored infantry vehicles and anti-aircraft systems, it would have been a game changer.
Euronews: We are approaching the first anniversary of the Russian invasion. Will we see another year of war? When could the war end?
Poroshenko: From the beginning, Western partners said they would help Ukraine survive. Now it’s Ukraine’s turn to win. You see the difference. But what does that mean, a victory? For some, when the Ukrainian flag flies over the Kremlin, it is a victory. For others, when the Ukrainian flag flies in Donbass and Crimea. My idea of victory is when we have a durable security architecture in Europe, where no European country is afraid of being attacked by the crazy Putin.
Euronews: As President, you negotiated the Minsk Agreement with Putin. Do I understand correctly that you are ruling out negotiations with Putin today?
Poroshenko: No. But we must have a very professional great negotiator, a great diplomat for Putin. And I have this negotiator and this diplomat. Do you know him?
Euronews: No. Who is it?
Poroshenko: Surprise. It’s the Ukrainian army.
The interview was conducted by Sandor Zsiros.