Zenon Kowal: The world must not tolerate Russia’s nuclear blackmail

The world should not be intimidated by Russia’s nuclear blackmail, as silence only emboldens the aggressor, said UWC Executive Committee member Zenon Kowal in an interview with Tsybulko Talk.

Kowal, who also advises the European Congress of Ukrainians and the Association of Ukrainians in Belgium, commented on a recent statement by Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken, who earlier warned Moscow that it would face destruction if it attacked NATO countries.

According to Kowal, such remarks signal a shift in attitudes across the West.

“In diplomatic circles, it’s rare to hear statements this blunt. But Belgium’s defense minister found the courage to speak out because he’s grown tired of hearing that only Russians can threaten to launch nuclear weapons against London, Paris, or anyone else — while everyone else stays silent, as if afraid of ‘provoking’ Russia. Apparently, only Russia is allowed to provoke,” Kowal said.

He said that Russia, which has the second nuclear arsenal after the U.S., must understand that it is not the only country with nuclear weapons.

China, France, the United Kingdom, India, Pakistan, Israel, and North Korea are also nuclear-armed states. 

Germany, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Turkey host U.S. nuclear bombs under NATO arrangements. 

“The entire global security system relies on a balance among nations that possess nuclear arms. Threatening their use violates every international agreement,” Kowal said.