By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The Nordic-Baltic Eight issued a joint statement supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and a just end to the war following a summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. The statement emphasized that a just and lasting peace requires Ukraine’s involvement in decision-making and labeled Russia as the aggressor. The bloc, consisting of eight nations, called for a ceasefire, security guarantees, the release of abducted Ukrainian children, and recognized Ukraine’s right to choose its own alliances. President Zelensky welcomed the bloc’s principled stance, highlighting the importance of these points for achieving sustainable peace.
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Putin cannot be trusted, and that’s the crux of the matter. This isn’t just a gut feeling; it’s a conclusion drawn from experience, from observing his actions and listening to his words, or rather, the lack of truth in them. The recent joint statement from the Nordic and Baltic countries underscores this reality, a sentiment echoed across the international community. It’s not a matter of conjecture anymore; it’s a stark assessment of a leader who disregards agreements and tramples on international law.
The statement explicitly highlights Russia’s “blatant violations of international law,” and rightly so. We’ve seen the evidence: the annexation of Crimea, the ongoing aggression in eastern Ukraine, and the full-scale invasion that has brought devastation to the entire nation. These actions are not misunderstandings or misinterpretations; they are deliberate choices, clear indications of a regime that operates outside the bounds of decency and international norms. To even have to say that “experience has shown that Putin cannot be trusted” highlights a fundamental flaw in the diplomatic relationship, the need for an ongoing debate on how to best work together.
This lack of trust extends beyond just personal interactions; it impacts the entire framework of international relations. When treaties are broken, and agreements are disregarded, the very foundation of global cooperation crumbles. The Nordic and Baltic countries, having a front-row seat to the evolving situation in Eastern Europe, recognize the existential threat Russia poses. Their joint statement is a strong message, a clear-cut declaration of where they stand, and an open invitation for other nations to follow suit.
It’s also important to recognize the drivers behind Putin’s actions, described in the statement as “Russia’s aggression and imperialist ambitions.” This isn’t simply about a misunderstanding or a localized conflict; it’s about a fundamental desire for power, a longing to expand Russia’s influence, and a willingness to use force to achieve those goals. This is the mindset that makes him and the country he leads untrustworthy and dangerous.
The comparison to former US President Donald Trump isn’t merely a rhetorical flourish; it reveals a worrying pattern. Both figures are characterized by a disregard for truth, an unchecked narcissism, and a penchant for undermining established norms. They share a willingness to court controversy and a track record of making decisions that benefit themselves at the expense of others. This similarity makes them kindred spirits who value loyalty over honesty and are therefore equally incapable of building and maintaining trust.
The response to Putin’s actions must extend beyond words. While statements of condemnation are crucial, they are not enough. The statement’s focus on providing support for Ukraine is paramount. It’s not just a matter of standing in solidarity; it’s a recognition that the war is not just Ukraine’s fight. It’s a battle for the principles of sovereignty, self-determination, and the rule of law, principles that are fundamental to a stable and peaceful world.
There’s a growing frustration, and rightly so, regarding the disparity between words and action. The need for more concrete support, whether it’s financial aid, military supplies, or humanitarian assistance, is urgent. Ukraine cannot defeat Russia alone, and the international community must recognize that its own security is inextricably linked to Ukraine’s ability to defend itself. The ongoing debate and delays in providing aid are unacceptable and only serve to embolden Putin and prolong the suffering of the Ukrainian people.
The situation is not only about Ukraine’s future but also about the future of Europe. Putin’s actions are not only directed against Ukraine, but against the entire European order. The consequences of Russia’s aggression, if left unchecked, are far-reaching, and their impact extends beyond the borders of Ukraine. A weakened and divided Europe only serves to embolden Putin and make him more dangerous.
The statement’s significance goes beyond the immediate context of the war. It represents a reassertion of the principles of international law and a commitment to standing against aggression. It’s a call for collective action, a reminder that the world must stand united in the face of tyranny. The Nordic and Baltic countries have demonstrated a clear understanding of the stakes, recognizing that Putin’s actions pose a direct threat to their own security and the future of a peaceful world.