Feb 19 • 08:16 UTC 🇱🇻 Latvia LSM

The EU will demand the withdrawal of Russian troops not only from Ukraine but also from Belarus, Georgia, Armenia, and Transnistria

The EU is set to demand the withdrawal of Russian military forces from several neighboring countries and outline conditions for Russia's compliance, including reparations and the demilitarization of occupied territories.

An EU document titled "The Fundamental Interests of Europe in Ensuring Comprehensive, Just, and Sustainable Peace and Security on the Continent" reflects Brussels’ view on the conditions that Moscow must meet. Alongside the demand for the withdrawal of Russian troops from neighboring countries, the EU insists on reparations, demilitarization of Ukrainian-occupied territories, non-recognition of these territories, and cessation of hybrid attacks against Europe by Russia. This comprehensive strategy indicates the EU's intent to strengthen its stance against Russian aggression in Eastern Europe and ensure regional stability.

Moreover, the document addresses internal political changes within Russia, calling for free and fair elections with the presence of international observers. It includes demands for the release of political prisoners, the repeal of the “foreign agents” law, and cooperation in the investigations into the murders of opposition figures Alexei Navalny and Boris Nemtsov. These requests highlight the EU's commitment to promoting democratic values and human rights in Russia, reflecting a broader strategy of linking foreign policy with internal governance standards.

A portion of the conditions set by the EU for Russia is expected to be discussed at the meeting of EU member states' foreign ministers on February 23. The urgency of these discussions underscores the EU's proactive approach to addressing security challenges posed by Russian military presence in the region, and it emphasizes the interconnectedness of security and political reform that the EU seeks to promote in its foreign relations.

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