What To Do About Russia and Ukraine

TL;DR

Experts discuss U.S. policy options for Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict.

Transcript

HAASS: OK, good evening. And welcome on this summer's day to the Council on Foreign Relations. Tonight is either the fourth or fifth -- I've lost count -- of this new series we've started, which is the "What to Do About," and tonight it is Russia and Ukraine. And the structure or approach of this series, for those of you who have not seen any of th... Read More

Key Insights

• Ukraine's recent election was successful, but the country still faces challenges, including separatist rebellions in the east.
• Russia's involvement in Ukraine is seen as a fundamental challenge to post-Cold War European policy.
• The U.S. and European unity is crucial in addressing the crisis, though there are differences in approach to sanctions against Russia.
• Economic stabilization of Ukraine is critical, with discussions on whether aid should be conditional or unconditional.
• There is a debate on whether the U.S. should provide lethal aid to Ukraine to bolster its defense capabilities.
• The potential for European energy diversification away from Russia is discussed, with U.S. support being a factor.
• Public support in the U.S. and Europe for financial aid to Ukraine is limited, complicating long-term assistance plans.
• The future of U.S.-Russia relations may involve compartmentalizing issues to allow cooperation on global challenges despite disagreements over Ukraine.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the main challenges Ukraine faces after its presidential election?

Despite a successful election, Ukraine faces ongoing challenges such as a separatist rebellion in the east, economic instability, and the need for political reforms. The new leadership must address these issues to stabilize the country and ensure its territorial integrity.

Q: How has Russia's involvement in Ukraine affected U.S. and European policy?

Russia's actions in Ukraine challenge the post-Cold War European policy of expanding a Europe whole, free, and at peace. The U.S. and Europe have aimed to maintain unity in their response, though differences in approach to sanctions and diplomatic strategies exist.

Q: What role does economic aid play in stabilizing Ukraine?

Economic aid is crucial for Ukraine's stabilization, with debates on whether this aid should be conditional on political and economic reforms or provided unconditionally to address immediate needs. Stabilizing Ukraine's economy is seen as both an objective and a tool for long-term success.

Q: What is the debate around providing lethal aid to Ukraine?

There is a debate on whether the U.S. should provide lethal aid to Ukraine to enhance its defense capabilities against separatists. Some argue this could provoke Russia, while others believe it is necessary to help Ukraine defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Q: How important is European energy diversification in the context of the Ukraine crisis?

European energy diversification is important to reduce dependency on Russian energy supplies. The U.S. can support this by facilitating energy exports and encouraging regulatory policies that lower global oil prices, indirectly affecting Russia's economic leverage.

Q: What is the public attitude towards financial aid for Ukraine in the U.S. and Europe?

Public support for financial aid to Ukraine is limited in both the U.S. and Europe, with bailout fatigue affecting willingness to provide long-term assistance. This complicates efforts to stabilize Ukraine's economy and requires careful consideration of aid conditions.

Q: How might U.S.-Russia relations evolve given the ongoing Ukraine crisis?

U.S.-Russia relations may involve compartmentalizing issues, allowing cooperation on global challenges like Iran and Afghanistan, while maintaining a firm stance on Ukraine. This approach seeks to balance competing interests and manage tensions effectively.

Q: What strategic policy adjustments are suggested for the U.S. in dealing with Ukraine and Russia?

Strategic policy adjustments include focusing on transatlantic energy projects, encouraging Ukraine to issue reassurances about its foreign policy, and considering targeted sanctions. These measures aim to stabilize Ukraine, influence Russian behavior, and maintain U.S.-Russia cooperation on other global issues.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The panel discusses the aftermath of Ukraine's successful presidential election and the ongoing separatist rebellion in the east, emphasizing the need for political and economic reforms to stabilize the country.

• The U.S. and Europe face challenges in maintaining unity on sanctions against Russia, with differing perspectives on how to influence Russian behavior and support Ukraine.

• The potential for U.S.-Russia cooperation on global issues, despite tensions over Ukraine, is explored, with suggestions for energy diversification and strategic policy adjustments.