Opinion by Carl Bildt: A prolonged war in Ukraine could transform Europe
, is in an exposed position. But even non-NATO countries such as Sweden and Finland will be seen in the Kremlin as part of the war. European leaders have to be prepared to further strengthen their ties to meet a threat that will be directed at Europe as well.
Some observers are talking about the prospect of a new deep Cold War with Russia. That’s a much too optimistic view. We are instead likely to be engaged in a confrontation only marginally short of hot war with the Kremlin and its forces as long as Putin remains in power. Europe has changed as a result of Putin’s aggression, and a long confrontation, which could well be more hot than cold, lies ahead.The implications of the new situation are fundamental. The European Union will have to continue to follow through.
Either way, the future of Europe and the E.U. looks much different today than it did just a week ago. We might not have true peace in Europe until Putin leaves the Kremlin. But then we should start anew our efforts to build a Europe whole and free. It’s too early to think in these terms, but a NATO that perhaps also has Sweden and Finland as members should be ready to invite both Ukraine and Russia to join.War in Ukraine: What you need to know
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