“We must stop the conflict in the interest of Europe. […] We need to rearm and militarize the border. At the same time, we must normalize relations with Russia, regain access to affordable energy. It’s just common sense,” Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever said in an interview.
Bart De Wever
Prime Minister of Belgium
“You read that right,” reacted the editor-in-chief of L’Écho on an interview with the Belgian Prime Minister over the weekend. De Wever pointed out that the Russo-Ukrainian conflict is dragging on, arming Ukraine is costly for Europe, and economically stifling Russia without US support is impossible. He concluded, “There is only one method left: make a deal.” If Europe does not take action, De Wever believes the Americans will push Ukraine to accept a deal that is not favorable to Europe.
A 180-degree Turn
De Wever’s stance is causing a stir in Belgium as it radically differs from the position held by most European chancelleries, excluding Hungary. This marks a significant change from a few months ago when De Wever advocated for strong sanctions against Russia.
“There are two options: either the member states step up and can negotiate with Russia from a position of strength, even on ‘affordable energy,’ or we stick to our weak and divided policy, leaving Europe vulnerable as Polish President Lech Walesa predicted in the 1990s that Russia would ‘make Europe tremble'”
“Yes, the European Union must have a seat at the negotiating table,” adds Het Laatste Nieuws. De Wever seems to be trying to offer Putin what he wants: access to a huge market for Russian gas and oil. However, reaching out “at a time when energy prices are soaring due to the war in Iran” might make Europe look like beggars, warns the popular daily.
Mexican Army
If only De Wever’s views were shared by the entire European Union, sighs Het Laatste Nieuws. But “he didn’t even express a view shared by his own government,” as he was quickly contradicted by his Foreign Minister. According to Maxime Prévot, “as long as Russia maintains maximalist demands and refuses European presence at the negotiating table, talking about normalization signals weakness that undermines the European unity we need more than ever.”
This is not the first time the Belgian government has clashed over foreign policy. This coalition, consisting of five parties, was previously divided over the recognition of Palestine six months ago, lamented De Standaard, likening Belgian diplomacy to a “Mexican army.”
