By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Moscow has moved to terminate military cooperation agreements with eleven European countries, including Germany, Poland, and the United Kingdom. These agreements, signed between 1992 and 2002, facilitated defense cooperation and mutual assistance. The decision encompasses both EU member states and those with special status in European security. This follows a previous termination of a military-technical cooperation agreement with Germany in July, citing its incompatibility with current relations.
Read the original article here
Russia Withdraws from Several Military Agreements with European Countries is a development that, frankly, shouldn’t surprise anyone. It’s almost becoming predictable. Considering their past behavior, it’s pretty clear that any agreement with Russia has about as much value as a Monopoly money.
The act of Russia withdrawing from these agreements feels like a calculated move. It’s like they’re clearing the decks, making way for… something. What that “something” is remains the question, but the implications are undeniable. It’s definitely a statement, a signal to Europe. Some might call it a prelude to something larger, a way to test the waters, or simply a show of defiance.
Honestly, when you look at the track record, agreements with Russia haven’t exactly been worth the paper they’re printed on. Ukraine knows this all too well, and the world witnessed the consequences of broken promises in the most devastating of ways. The Budapest Memorandum, anyone? It’s a stark reminder that trusting Russia’s word can have severe and tragic outcomes. It seems that they have a long history of betraying everyone, even themselves.
The timing of this withdrawal from military agreements raises even more questions. Is it a sign of weakness or a sign of strength? Is it a way to create a more favorable playing field for future actions? Or is it a strategic move to undermine European security and create uncertainty? Regardless, it’s a clear message: Russia is prioritizing its own interests and is willing to cast aside agreements that no longer serve that purpose.
In a world where diplomacy seems increasingly useless, and with Russia’s past actions, it’s natural to question the motivations behind this move. The only approach that seems to garner results with Russia is strength. This move, in a way, feels like a slap in the face to international norms and a challenge to the existing order.
This is a scenario that forces Europe to consider its own defense capabilities. It seems that the US is changing its focus, and Europe has to face the reality of needing to stand more firmly on its own feet. This reality brings forth the urgency of Europe to arm itself. Some have suggested that the only way to safeguard peace and security is with weapons, which is what Europe should do.
Given Russia’s historical behavior, this latest move by Russia isn’t surprising. If Russia can’t even take the Donbas, how can they invade Western Europe? Europe is now in need to stop relying on the US for its defense. The US is focusing on China.
However, many questions remain. Why would Russia invade Europe? What would be the end goal? What kind of legal structure are they preparing? These are all questions that need urgent and serious consideration.
Ultimately, the impact of Russia withdrawing from these agreements is significant. It’s a reminder of the unreliable nature of dealing with the Russian government and a call to action for Europe to prepare for whatever comes next. It’s also an indication that they are preparing the legal background for themselves so they have a sound legal basis (for themselves!) to wage war in the future.