Theresa May wants to Work With EU against Russian aggression

Theresa May wants to Work With EU against Russian aggression

Ben Kerrigan-

Theresa May has pledged to continue to “work closely” with the EU after Brexit, as she arrived for her first Brussels summit as prime minister.

Theresa May has called for a united European stance against Russian aggression. May said it was important to have a ”united European stance against Russian aggression that included sickening violence in Syria

She said it was important to have a “united European stance” against “Russian aggression” that included “sickening” violence in Syria.Theresa May’s call for this European stance sounds good, but the problem lies in the the path Brexit takes and the manner and type of negotiation that takes place.

The tension between the UK and the EU since the referendum makes that call a tad shaky, and at best hopeful. Indeed, it is hopeful that such a united stance can still be formed. despite the UK  being out of the EU. Already, the European Council President, Donald Tusk, has called the summit a “nest of doves”.

Opposition lies right there in his words, but the prime minister must take a calm and strategic approach in discussing these issues at the right time with European leaders. It is still likely to pose a challenge to get angry EU leaders to form a European stance with UK, after Brexit. It is not in the best interest of EU leaders and the UK to have a bitter fall out over the EU- this will make it a painful and risky experience altogether.

Russian aggression

Russian aggression in Syria calls for all round talks, but not a division of nation states exerting tension over a tragic war in Syria that really should have been avoided. The blood shed from the war can’t be reversed, but can be handled strategically on a united front.

”The prime minister was keen to emphasise this when she arrived in Brussels, saying: “I’m here with a clear message. The UK is leaving the EU, but we will continue to play a full role until we leave and we will be a strong and dependable partner after we have left”

“It’s in the interests of both the UK and the EU that we continue to work closely together, including at this summit.”

She added: “We must continue that robust and united European stance in the face of Russian aggression.” It was “vital” to “put pressure on Russia to stop its appalling atrocities, its sickening atrocities, in Syria”, the prime minister said.

Pressure on Russia is necessary, but may offer no solution. The precise nature and underlying triggers of the escalating war in Syria must be addressed stage by stage, highlighting all crucial elements that need to be addressed. Clarity will then be achieved in terms of what exactly can be achieved, which outcomes are within reach, and which are not.

Spread the news