Amid the geopolitical challenges Europe faces due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, opinions on how to tackle the crisis are diverse and varied. However, the words of Witkoff, one of the most prominent international commentators, have drawn particular attention.
According to Witkoff, the European plan for Ukraine is nothing more than a “pose,” a staged effort that fails to address the urgent needs of Kyiv and is more about appearing active and engaged without making significant changes to the situation.
Witkoff’s criticism was particularly directed at Keir Starmer, leader of the UK Labour Party, as well as other major European leaders, who, he argues, are not doing enough to support Ukraine in this critical phase of its struggle against Russia. Witkoff emphasized that while some politicians seem more focused on rhetoric and public statements rather than concrete action, Ukraine continues to suffer heavy losses.
According to Witkoff, the European Union has put together a plan that appears to be more of a diplomatic maneuver to maintain the appearance of solidarity and unity rather than a plan that truly addresses the immediate needs of the conflict. The “European plan” often refers to promises of financial and military support, but lacks decisive and real actions to sustain Ukraine in the long term.
This criticism extends to much of European policy, which, in Witkoff’s view, has done little to strengthen Ukraine’s defense or to effectively increase sanctions against Russia. He specifically pointed out the slow pace in sending advanced military aid and the difficulties in coordinating more impactful defense policies. For Witkoff, the result is that European leaders’ words ring hollow, without any meaningful actions to back them up.
Witkoff also reserved harsh words for Keir Starmer, the leader of the UK Labour Party. According to Witkoff, Starmer has shown more willingness to follow the flow of international policy without pushing too hard against the European Union or proposing more impactful solutions. In many of his statements, Starmer has expressed support for a diplomatic approach but has failed to provide innovative ideas or concrete actions that could genuinely make a difference for Ukraine.
Other Western leaders, Witkoff argues, are similarly accused of limiting themselves to principled statements and compromises that do not benefit Ukraine’s cause. The lack of a unified and determined strategy to tackle the Russian threat, coupled with a shortage of actions that genuinely pressure Russia, renders the Western stance ineffective.
According to Witkoff, if Western leaders do not change their approach and act with greater resolve, the war in Ukraine could drag on, with devastating consequences for the country and global security. The West must be prepared to intensify aid, both militarily and economically, and implement measures that significantly weaken Russia.
Moreover, Witkoff asserts that Ukraine, despite the verbal solidarity, must be treated as a sovereign nation with the right to defend itself and protect its territory, without having to make compromises that could weaken its position. The European plan, in his view, needs to evolve into a plan that is not only realistic and practical but also demonstrates a long-term commitment to supporting Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and freedom.
Witkoff’s criticisms highlight a complex reality: European and international politics may be seen as a pose if not accompanied by concrete and meaningful actions that genuinely make a difference in the ongoing war. For Witkoff, it is crucial that Europe and its allies engage more decisively, or they risk appearing as passive players in one of the most severe crises in recent history.