New Delhi: European Union Commissioner Andrius Kubilius has sharply condemned former U.S. President Donald Trump over his recent clash with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Mr. Kubilius labeled Trump’s actions as “unacceptable” and reaffirmed the EU’s unwavering support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.
EU Condemns Trump’s Treatment of Zelensky
Speaking on the issue, Mr. Kubilius, the European Commissioner for Defence Industry and Space and a former Lithuanian Prime Minister, said, “That was a totally difficult to understand and unacceptable way of receiving a president of another country that is fighting for its survival.” He emphasized that European leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, have assured Zelensky and Ukraine that they will not stand alone.
The criticism follows Vice President JD Vance’s remarks at the Munich Security Conference, where he took a tough stance against the EU on multiple issues, signaling potential rifts in transatlantic relations.
EU’s Military and Financial Support to Ukraine
Mr. Kubilius also countered claims by Trump that the U.S. has provided disproportionately high support to Ukraine. He clarified that “the European Union’s overall military and financial support for Ukraine has been around 30% higher than that of the U.S.” The EU has contributed approximately $130 billion, compared to the U.S.’s $100 billion.
Geopolitical Consequences of Failing Ukraine
The EU official warned that reducing support for Ukraine could embolden China and other authoritarian states. He stated, “If the West fails in Ukraine, Russia will see a victory for its aggressive policies, and China will take note. This could have serious consequences, potentially leading to aggression against Taiwan or other regions.”
Strengthening EU-India Ties & Free Trade Agreement
During his visit to India, Mr. Kubilius emphasized that the EU is committed to strengthening ties with India. He expressed confidence that the EU-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will be finalized by the end of the year, aligning with von der Leyen’s vision of a “no-limits” strategic partnership between the two regions.
He highlighted India’s increasing global significance, saying, “The 21st century will be India’s century due to its economic and geopolitical influence.” The Commissioner also underscored shared democratic values as a foundation for deeper collaboration.
Defence and Space Cooperation Between EU and India
Discussing defence and security, Mr. Kubilius revealed that the EU is keen on establishing a Strategic Pact on Defence and Security with India, similar to agreements with Japan and South Korea. This could involve joint military exercises, data-sharing, and space cooperation.
He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious space program, which includes plans for a crewed moon mission by 2040 and a space station. “If you can achieve significant milestones in space, it establishes you as a strong global partner,” he remarked.
India as a Key Defence Manufacturing Hub
With ongoing security concerns in Europe due to Russian aggression, Mr. Kubilius suggested that India could play a vital role in addressing gaps in European defence manufacturing. He pointed to India’s skilled workforce, lower production costs, and robust defence industry as major advantages for joint ventures.
A Strengthened EU-India Partnership
The EU’s growing focus on India signals a deepening strategic relationship that spans trade, defence, and space exploration. As geopolitical tensions rise, this alliance could play a crucial role in upholding the global rules-based order.
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