On day three of the World Economic Forum in Davos, the head of NATO issued an urgent plea to global leaders to boost military and financial support for war-torn Ukraine. Secretary General Mark Rutte warned that the current trajectory of the conflict favors Russia, with potentially dire consequences for global security if left unchecked.
Speaking at a breakfast event hosted by Ukrainian businessman Victor Pinchuk, Rutte outlined three key reasons for the international community to “step up, not scale back” assistance to Ukraine:
- Preventing the subjugation of a sovereign nation – Allowing Russia to invade and occupy Ukraine would set a dangerous precedent in the 21st century
- Countering the emerging alliance of Russia, China, Iran and North Korea – A Ukrainian defeat would embolden this bloc of adversarial powers
- Avoiding massively increased defense spending by NATO members – Failure in Ukraine would necessitate “trillions” in additional military expenditures to counter the threat
Rutte emphasized that sustainable peace, not a temporary ceasefire, must be the end goal. “For it to be sustainable, we have to make sure that Putin will never, ever, ever again try to get a square kilometer of Ukraine in the future,” he said. The NATO chief also reaffirmed the alliance’s commitment to eventually granting Ukraine membership.
Victor Pinchuk framed robust support for Ukraine as a matter of national interest for other countries. “If you put the interest of your country first, then it means national security is an absolute priority,” the oligarch said. “But that means you must not let our crazy, terrible enemy win in Ukraine.” He warned that a Ukrainian loss would severely damage the security of other nations.
A Day of Populist Voices
The calls for greater Ukraine aid come on a day when populist figures are taking center stage at Davos. While former U.S. President Donald Trump is not physically attending this year, his presence looms large. Trump is slated to address the forum via live video link at 5pm local time.
Another controversial leader, new Argentine President Javier Milei, will also deliver a special address. Known for his unorthodox economic views, Milei’s speech is expected to make waves. And in a message to the gathering, Pope Francis is set to highlight faith perspectives on pressing world issues.
Key Sessions to Watch
Other notable events on Thursday’s agenda include:
- A debate on the efficacy and risks of tariffs in the current geopolitical climate
- An examination of the perilous lag between advances in artificial intelligence and national security preparedness
- The unveiling of the latest Global Risks Report, which will highlight the most pressing threats facing the international community in 2025 and beyond
As the war in Ukraine approaches the one-year mark, the discussions at Davos underscore the high stakes and divergent visions for the conflict’s end game. With calls for redoubled support clashing with voices of restraint, the debates in the Swiss Alps may chart the course of the war’s second year.
