Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles has expressed concerns over the potential escalation of conflict with Russia if NATO troops are sent to Ukraine. This comes amid recent talks about sending troops to aid Ukraine, a move that some European NATO members have backed, including French President Emmanuel Macron. However, Robles stated that Spain is firmly against such a decision, emphasizing the importance of not providing excuses for Russia to escalate the conflict further.
Addressing an event for female diplomats organized by the German ambassador to Madrid, Robles acknowledged the precarious state of global security, stating that “we are living in the most dangerous situation since the Second World War.” She highlighted the threat posed by ballistic missiles, which “know no borders.
Macron had previously mentioned building a coalition with several other countries to send instructors to Ukraine. He stressed that this move would not constitute an escalation of the conflict. However, Robles emphasized that NATO’s primary goal from the start of the hostilities has been to “not escalate” while supporting Ukraine.
Since the beginning of the war, the US and its allies have provided close to $120 billion worth of weapons, equipment, and ammunition to Ukraine, according to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy in Germany. While this support has not made them a party to the conflict, it has sparked concerns from Russia that material aid could lead to further escalation.
Spain, on its part, has supplied Ukraine with entirely defensive weapons. Robles stated that Madrid is finalizing repairs on a new batch of Leopard main battle tanks, which will be sent to Kiev soon. Additionally, Spain is training approximately 6,000 Ukrainian soldiers in hand-to-hand combat and basic first aid techniques such as making tourniquets.
In line with the security pact signed by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez with Vladimir Zelensky last month, Madrid has promised over €1 billion ($1.08 billion) worth of military aid to Ukraine, along with an additional €5 billion over the next three years. The pact includes commitments from Spain to deliver more Patriot air defense missiles, Leopard 2A4 tanks, and ammunition.
Russia has warned that continued support for Ukraine by Western nations could potentially make them a party to the ongoing conflict, while not significantly altering its ultimate outcome.
