Long-reads

Overhauling Western military support for Ukraine: imperative of EU plan for Ukraine's victory
By committing to an annual support threshold of 0.25% of the Western combined GDP, Western democracies can significantly eventually secure victory.
Bringing order to the border: why Ukraine and Poland need help from Frontex
The EU does not see the situation at the Ukrainian-Polish border as a border management problem. It’s time that changed.
Ukraine's victory "whatever it takes," dialogue with opposition, and Kyiv's two battles. Speech by EU's top diplomat
In January 2022, I met with the Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and he asked me: "When they will invade us – because they will invade us – will you support us?"
Why Ukraine failed in The Hague, and what it needs to change to win cases against Russia
The key accusations in Ukraine's complaint to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) were thrown out by the judges. Even the Ukrainian-elected judge voted against.
Ukraine claims win over Russia: explaining UN court's ruling on Crimea and Donbas case
Russia is a violator of international law. Now it’s official. There is a so-called "kitchen sink" method, where you marshall all the arguments you can in the hope that at least one of them will work...
UN court issues first ruling against the Kremlin. What to expect and what not to
The court may completely object to some of Ukraine's accusations. The weakest seems to be Kyiv's position regarding the financing of terrorism in Donbas...
After Tusk's visit to Kyiv: let’s not base our relations on gratitude
While romantic ruptures are part of the Polish-Ukrainian story, it is now time for realism. Donald Tusk's visit to Kyiv began the process of redefining relations between our countries.
End of the "Greater Europe" project: Why Azerbaijan's exit from PACE reflects global changes
The political crisis that led to Azerbaijan's suspension from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) was the country's own doing. It has been described as a deliberate slap in PACE’s face, and one which did not go without a response…
Stable world is impossible without justice and punishment. France will help bring these about
Ukraine is not alone. Ukraine has many friends. They are the countries which, like France, are deeply committed to complying with the principles of the United Nations Charter.
"The era of peace dividend is over. Moving from a post-war to a pre-war world." Historic speech by UK Defence Secretary
"The age of the peace dividend is over. 2024 must mark an inflexion point. For Ukraine, this will be a year when the fate of their nation may be decided." 
"2024 Will Be Exhausting but Will Lead To Victory". Lithuanian Ambassador on Prospects for Ukraine
The reforms related to the EU and NATO accession would be a major challenge in the best of times. Yet, to return to the wisdom of Winston Churchill, whose words I echoed in the beginning: "If you are going through hell, keep going".
Challenges of Confiscation: What Will Help Ukraine Achieve Transfer of Russian Assets
In recent weeks, representatives of the Ukrainian authorities, including the President, regularly talk about the prospects of confiscating Russian assets and urge allies to make such decisions.
Outrage Sparked in Ukraine by Parliament Speaker's Efforts to Sabotage Opposition Internationally
Up to now, Ukraine's partners have turned a blind eye to democracy issues. That silence is likely to end in 2024. Public debates on this matter have already been scheduled in Europe...
Will Orbán Be Allowed to "Seize" EU Power? Сonsequences of Charles Michel's Resignation
In July, when Michel steps down from his position, Hungary will be presiding in the European Council. The "appointment" of Orbán does not even require a vote by the other member states.
Polska prowadzi "wojnę" przeciwko europejskiej przyszłości Ukrainy. Warszawa musi zdać sobie z tego sprawę
Podczas pełnienia funkcji szefa Rady Europejskiej Donald Tusk latał z wojskowymi na wschodnią Ukrainę i promował przystąpienie Ukrainy do UE. Ale teraz jego bezczynność jako polskiego premiera podważa przyszłość Ukrainy.
Poland Must Recognise It's Waging War against Ukraine's European Future
Poland’s full-scale trade war against Ukraine is ongoing and is worsening. Week after week, Poland is killing Ukraine’s European future...
Ukraine Moves from Sprint to Long-Distance Run With Hurdles: EU Ambassador on 2024
Joining the EU, however frustrating the process may seem at times, is worth it...
Veto Plans: What to Expect from Orbán on Ukraine in 2024
Budapest is resuming and intensifying its campaign to demonise Ukraine. One of its tools is expected to be a "referendum" in Hungary.