West And Ukraine Must Shift Strategic Dynamics With Russia — Former Deputy Assistant NATO Secretary General

Ukraine's allies must unite to counter Russia, according to security expert Stefanie Babst. In an interview with Ukrinform, she called for establishing joint patrols of Ukrainian airspace to counter Russian drones and missiles. Babst, a former Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy at NATO, argues that the West and Ukraine must shift the strategic dynamic with Russia.

However, she admits there is insufficient political will in Berlin, Paris, and London. Babst suggests creating a Joint Air Protection Zone over cities like Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, and Lviv. This zone would involve Coalition of the Willing members, Ukraine's Air Force, and combat aircraft to intercept Russian threats. She believes this move would send a strong message to Putin about Ukraine's defense becoming our defense.

Babst also warns of Russia's intent to target Ukraine's economic arteries, energy, and water networks during the coming autumn and winter, aiming to weaken Ukraine's resistance. She emphasizes that Putin's goal has long been to destabilize and weaken European countries through disinformation and right-wing populism. NATO, while supportive of strengthening its eastern flank allies' air defense, treats these efforts as separate issues.