LA VALLETTA (MNA/ITALPRESS) – Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela said a more pragmatic approach needs to be taken to the war between Russia and Ukraine, while declaring “Ukraine is not going to win this war.”
During a televised interview, Abela recognised that Ukraine was the victim of Russian aggression, however, he said a diplomatic solution is needed to end the war. He added, “Maltàs biggest investment should continue to be in diplomacy.”
Referring to Thursday’s crises EU summit, the Maltese Premier confirmed that there is a disagreement within the EU leaders on the issue. “I think there are those who want a permanent ceasefire, whereas there are those who want Ukraine to win. We really are at a crossroads in Europe.”
EU leaders on Thursday greenlit a plan drawn up by the European Commission that aims to mobilise 800 billion to “re-arm Europe” against the perceived threat from Russia.
The prime minister spoke about the importance of close relations with the President of the United States Donald Trump. Abela said Trump’s proposed minerals deal with Ukraine would serve as a security guarantee in itself, as it would mean the US has economic interests in the country which it would want to protect.
Robert Abela has justified Maltàs vote in favour of a 800 billion plan to bolster European defence spending. He explained that through the vote, the Maltese government secured guarantees that it would not be involved in arms purchases while not preventing other EU countries from bolstering their defence spending.
He added any debts taken on by other EU countries under the 800 billion plan will not be guaranteed by Malta.
On Maltàs own security, Abela said EU membership includes mutual defence clauses.
(ITALPRESS).
Foto: Partito Laburista Malta
