Ukraine war sparks European debate on merits of neutrality

[Sherman A1]

As Russian missiles hammer Ukraine and the world worries about the war escalating beyond its borders, European nations with a history of military non-engagement are examining whether the time has come to dump their long-held neutrality.

Six countries in Europe have embraced the stance, although to varying degrees. Finland and Sweden were neutral during the cold war but are tilting towards joining NATO; the principle is written into the constitutions of Austria and Malta; and Ireland and Switzerland have made it a cornerstone of foreign policy.

But recent polls suggest Russia’s aggression is accelerating a shift in public opinion in some of the nations.

Surveys just after February’s invasion found that for the first time, a majority of Finns and Swedes favoured their countries joining NATO.

Many in Ireland still oppose the country joining the western alliance, but a poll published late last month found 48% were now in favour of membership and 46% would vote “yes” in any referendum on whether Irish troops should serve in a future EU army.

https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/ukraine-war-sparks-european-debate-on-merits-of-neutrality/47488722?utm_campaign=teaser-in-channel&utm_medium=display&utm_source=swissinfoch&utm_content=o

[Wicked Blue]

1. Neutrality can be worthless

I can't understand why Ukraine is offering to become a neutral nation in its peace negotiations.

The Rashists have proven repeatedly that they can't be trusted to honor treaties and agreements. The word of Russia's leaders is worthless.

In1994, didn't Ukraine give up its nuclear weapons in exchange for guarantees they would not be invaded?

We've seen how well that worked.

In the current invasion, Ukraine has sought again and again and again to obtain safe humanitarian and evacuation corridors from places like Mariupol.

Every time, the lying Russkys have agreed, and then have attacked people attempting to use those corridors.

If Ukraine agrees to become neutral in exchange for Russia ending the invasion, there are no guarantees and no precedents that the Russky bastards will honor what they lyingly promise. They'll wait a year, then return to slaughter and destroy what's left of Ukraine.