Will Ukraine & EU Form New Military Alliance to Replace NATO? – Apr Q&A

( KYIV ) – A wide ranging question and answer session on the war in Ukraine addressed key issues including the prospects of retaking Crimea, the stability of global nuclear safeguards, protests in Georgia, and the future of European defence cooperation.

On Crimea, analysts said reclaiming the occupied peninsula remains a complex and long term objective. Military realities, entrenched Russian positions, and logistical challenges mean any attempt would require sustained pressure and significant Western support. While Kyiv maintains its claim, expectations are tempered by battlefield conditions.

Concerns over nuclear decision making in the United States were also raised, particularly regarding President Donald Trump. Experts noted that multiple institutional safeguards exist within the US system, including military and legal checks, though debate continues over how robust these mechanisms are in extreme scenarios.

Developments in Georgia were described as fluid, with ongoing protests reflecting domestic political tensions and concerns over democratic direction. Observers say the situation bears watching given the country’s strategic location and history with Russia.

Questions about the continued operation of the Kerch Bridge highlighted the difficulty of targeting heavily defended infrastructure. While Ukraine has previously struck the bridge, it remains functional due to Russian air defences and rapid repair efforts.

Attention also turned to China and Taiwan, with analysts suggesting Beijing is likely to continue applying pressure without immediate military escalation. The situation remains a major global security concern, closely linked to the broader balance of power.

On the possibility of a new military alliance, experts said Ukraine and the European Union are deepening defence cooperation, but replacing NATO would be a significant and complex undertaking. NATO remains the cornerstone of European security, though discussions about complementary structures are increasing.

In Transnistria, tensions remain low but unresolved. The breakaway region continues to be a potential flashpoint of instability, particularly given its proximity to Ukraine.

Economic concerns were also discussed, including the scale of United States debt, estimated at around 39 trillion US dollars. Analysts noted that while high, the figure reflects the size of the US economy and global financial system.

Technical challenges on the battlefield were highlighted, including the clean up of fibre optic debris from drones and communications systems. These remnants can pose hazards and complicate operations in contested areas.

Safeguards against nuclear launch were revisited, with emphasis on procedural checks within the US command structure designed to prevent unilateral action without verification.

Finally, discussion turned to European Union financial support for Ukraine, including a proposed 90 billion euro package, equivalent to approximately 97 billion US dollars.