In recent interviews, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, former Commander of the COFS and Chairman of the NATO Military Committee since January 17, emphasized that "peace is not free, but war has immensely higher costs." He highlighted the need to increase military spending more efficiently, stressing that fragmentation among NATO and EU countries prevents economies of scale and increases costs.
The defense of industrial sovereignty has contributed to a technological delay in the European industry. He also warned against the current threat, considering it equal to, if not worse than, that of the Cold War. He reiterated the urgency of greater commitment to defense, highlighting that the threat is at Europe's doorstep and that allied countries must strengthen their military readiness.
Regarding the conflict in Ukraine, Dragone reiterated the importance of supporting the Ukrainian army to ensure a "just peace" with Russia. During his visit to Kyiv, he met with President Zelensky and ministers Umarov and Sybiha, emphasizing the determination of Ukraine in defending its territory. According to Dragone, the Russian army achieves limited successes at the cost of heavy losses, with an average of 7-800 Russian soldiers killed or wounded per day. He pointed out that Putin's initial plan, which foresaw a quick victory, has failed.
On Donald Trump's statements regarding a possible dialogue with Putin, Dragone stressed that NATO maintains a firm stance on transatlantic security, regardless of political developments. He highlighted the importance of international meetings such as the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Ramstein and the Munich Security Conference.
NATO and Ukraine, here too peace is not free
Dragone stated that NATO follows three principles: ensuring Ukraine's strength to negotiate from a solid position, providing support for its defense, and respecting international law. He emphasized the absence of concrete signals of negotiating willingness from Putin and the risk that a freezing of the conflict would give Russia time to reorganize for a new aggression.
Regarding Ukraine's possible accession to NATO, Dragone confirmed the commitment made at the 2024 Washington summit, stressing that the path is now irreversible. He recalled the military support provided to Ukraine, with over 50 billion euros in aid and training centers.
On the possibility that the United States might block aid under a Trump presidency, Dragone expressed skepticism about a total interruption, suggesting instead a possible readjustment. He highlighted that Europe already provides a significant contribution and could increase it, once again peace is not free!
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