'I cannot think of any rational reason for Russia to attack Ukraine', says Jean Asselborn

The EU, NATO, and the United States have done everything to avoid a war between Ukraine and Russia, Asselborn stressed, adding that he cannot think of any "rational" reason that would lead Russia to attack Ukraine.

An enormous number of diplomatic efforts have been made, according to Asselborn. However, a lot of trends are going in the wrong direction, the Minister explained, adding that he still has hope, nonetheless. Even if he "cannot guarantee anything", as Asselborn acknowledged. He pointed out that it is certainly not a good sing that Russia will not participate in the Munich Security Conference. But "as long as there has not been an attack, we must continue to believe that the diplomatic efforts will bear fruit", Asselborn said. While the Minister sees room for negotiations, he is certain that a military intervention would not solve anything. For this reason, Asselborn thinks that the current priority should be de-escalation.

Ultimately, it seems that only the US President will be able to influence Russian President Vladimir Putin, Asselborn stated. However, it must be made clear that new security policies cannot be decided without Europeans, the Minister stressed.

In the case that Russia does attack, "systematic sanctions" will be imposed, Asselborn explained, stressing that they would "hurt not only the Russians, but also the Europeans". It is evident, according to the Minister, that an attack would have repercussions on Europe and thus also on Luxembourg. In this event, it would be paramount to show "absolute solidarity", Asselborn stated.

Regarding Ukraine, Asselborn said that it would be in the country's own interest to do everything in its power to respect Minsk II.

Asselborn also discussed the Olympic Winter Games in Beijing and stated that if he were minister of sport, he would have travelled to the Games to discuss certain issues. However, Asselborn stressed every politician must take these decisions for themselves. The Minister thinks that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) bears a much greater responsibility.

In the future, the IOC must be very careful when it comes to which country gets to host the Games, Asselborn stressed, declaring that people "are fed up" with megalomania and the fact that countries which do not respect human rights are hosting the Olympic Games.

Finally, the Minister also discussed European migration policy. Asselborn still regrets that for years now, Europe is divided and displays a lack of solidarity on the matter. In the case of Luxembourg, the Minister called on municipalities to show solidarity and willingness to take in refugees. While numerous efforts have been made, many are still in need of a place to stay, Asselborn said.