Peace through strength Vladimir Putin must be made to understand that he cannot simply dictate terms to end the war in Ukraine

 Vladimir Putin continues to deny Ukraine’s right to sovereignty, having launched two invasions since 2014. Yet, his attempts to dominate the country have been thwarted by the determination of the Ukrainian people. After more than two years of fierce resistance, it is evident that Ukraine will never succumb to Russian oppression. However, despite their resilience, Putin’s brutal aggression persists. If Ukraine’s allies fail to maintain firm support, the war could drag on, destabilizing Europe in the process.

To ensure lasting peace, Ukraine’s allies must send a clear message to Putin that he cannot dictate the terms of peace. Achieving this will require increased military aid, a defined path to NATO membership, and strong international backing for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s peace plan.

Moreover, Russia’s increasingly aggressive stance threatens not only Ukraine but global stability. The war has already caused global repercussions, raising energy and food prices, and posing nuclear safety risks. By violating core principles of international law, Russia has disrupted the global order.

For peace to be achieved, Ukraine’s allies must make it clear that Putin cannot dictate the outcome of the conflict. This involves building global support for a peace agreement based on international law, strengthening Ukraine’s position on the battlefield, providing long-term security guarantees, and outlining a clear route to NATO accession.

While Putin seeks to prolong the conflict, Zelensky is actively pursuing a sustainable peace. This summer, he gathered representatives from over 90 countries to rally support for his 10-point peace plan, which emphasizes nuclear safety, environmental concerns, and a complete Russian withdrawal.

International pressure will be vital in achieving a resolution, but enduring peace also requires robust security guarantees. Given Russia’s consistent disregard for international law and human rights, peace cannot rely on Putin’s promises. The outcome of the war hinges on Ukraine’s ability to defend itself.

The immediate priority is enhancing Ukraine’s battlefield position. With Russian missiles and drones still claiming civilian lives across the country, often launched from within Russia, Ukraine has the right to deploy long-range weapons to target these launch sites and prevent further attacks. Restricting Ukraine’s ability to do so is akin to asking it to fight with one hand tied behind its back. Ukrainian forces have proven they can handle Western-supplied weaponry responsibly and effectively, and it is time for allies to remove any remaining restrictions on the types of weapons provided and how they are used.

In addition to immediate military aid, Ukraine’s allies must commit to supplying equipment and financial resources for as long as necessary. Ukraine has already received long-term security guarantees from over 30 countries under the Kyiv Security Compact. Now, these guarantees must be proven effective.

In the months ahead, efforts will focus on ensuring these commitments are met. This will include monitoring implementation, evaluating evolving threats, and aligning Ukraine’s security needs with Europe’s broader defense strategy.