A panel discussion with German politicians and experts on the “Architecture of Values and Security in the Future Euro-Atlantic Space” took place in Berlin

As part of developing international cooperation and establishing horizontal connections between leadership communities of different countries, Aspen Institute Kyiv organized a series of events in Berlin on June 9-10, 2023. These events included a seminar, a panel discussion with the participation of German politicians, and a meeting of leaders from Ukraine and Germany. Those events were organized for alumni who were forced to leave their country after the start of the full-scale invasion or are residing abroad for work-related reasons. Additionally, representatives from Aspen Institute Germany and the German leadership community joined the events.
During the dialogue panel “Architecture of Values and Security in the Future Euro-Atlantic Space,” participants had the opportunity to engage in discussions with Michael Roth (a German politician from the Social Democratic Party of Germany [SPD], a member of the Bundestag since September 27, 1998), Viola von Cramon-Taubadel (a German politician from the Alliance 90/The Greens party, a member of the European Parliament since 2019), and Stormy-Annika Mildner (Executive Director of Aspen Institute Germany). The dialogue was moderated by the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Ukraine to Germany and a graduate of the “Responsible Leadership-20” seminar, Oleksii Makeiev.
The Aggression of Russia as a Catalyst for Economic and Political Processes on the European Continent.
After the start of Russia’s full-scale aggression, Ukraine received exceptional support from the German people. Aspen Institute Germany, in particular, supported the activities of Aspen Institute Kyiv. Participants of the panel discussion noted the resilience and courage of the Ukrainian people in facing the enemy. They also supported our country’s aspiration to defend every inch of its territory.
The panel discussion speakers acknowledged Germany’s significant economic dependency on Russia and emphasized the need to counter it. They also highlighted that Ukraine’s NATO membership could provide reliable protection for the state and signal the cessation of imperial ambitions for the Kremlin.
At the same time, the speakers emphasized the importance of countering Russian propaganda, which significantly impacts the attitudes and views of citizens in Germany and across Europe.
The Current Political Situation in the European Space
German politicians participating in the discussion noted that Russia’s full-scale aggression against Ukraine is not its first act of aggression. Before this, there was the unlawful annexation of Crimea and the occupation of parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
The German politicians also reiterated that Crimea belongs to Ukraine. Russia’s occupation of the peninsula violates international law and the principle of territorial integrity. Supporting Ukrainian sovereignty and not recognizing the illegal occupation of Crimea becomes a crucial aspect of Germany’s policy in the context of the conflict with Russia.
The speakers of the panel discussion highlight that a strong Ukraine and support for its interests are essential to ensuring peace and stability in Europe. By defending its independence, Ukraine keeps Russia from penetrating the European Union.
Overall, the panel discussion, with the participation of German politicians, reflects an exceptional readiness to support Ukraine in its confrontation with Russia. It underscores the necessity of Ukraine’s NATO membership and the fight against Russian propaganda. These decisions aim to strengthen Europe’s security and support Ukraine’s independence and sovereignty.
During the dialogue panel, members of the Aspen community had the opportunity to pose their questions, receiving substantial answers in return.
We thank colleagues and participants for the productive conversation and for assisting Ukraine during these challenging times!