“If the rhetoric does not change, if no diplomatic progress is achieved, we are most likely to again witness the tense events of the Cuban Missile Crisis,” Toperich said.
- What are the possible consequences of the Russia-Ukraine war?
- Autonomy and self-governance in Donetsk and Luhansk must be secured at a high level. Russia must completely withdraw its troops from Ukraine. If this happens, the process of Ukraine’s accession to the EU could begin. Ukraine must stay out of NATO. The war may drag on, but no one cares. This scenario is quite dangerous for global peace and stability, as well as for the global economy.
- What actions are needed to stop the war?
- The West needs to find a way to force Russia to withdraw its troops from Ukraine. The rhetoric must change. A meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy should take place without delay. Preference should be given to Turkey, which can play an important role in helping end the war, as it has good relations with both sides. The obligations to be undertaken by both leaders must be made public. This could be a turning point in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
- Is there a possibility of the Ukrainian scenario in the South Caucasus?
- I do believe that Russia will not open other possible fronts for new wars. Russia did not expect such a unanimous response from Europe and a decisive step by the United States on Ukraine. Many countries condemn Russia for launching an attack on Ukraine. If the war in Ukraine drags on, neutral countries may be encouraged to condemn Russia and impose sanctions on it.
