The Munk Debates Podcast Munk Dialogue with Andrew Coyne: a phony peace deal for Ukraine could put all of Europe at risk
Aug 19, 2025
In a compelling discussion, Andrew Coyne, a Globe and Mail columnist known for his sharp political insights, delves into the recent high-stakes meeting involving Trump, Zelensky, and European leaders. Topics include the superficial nature of potential peace deals for Ukraine and the risks they pose to European security. Coyne questions the validity of Trump's security guarantees without NATO backing and critiques leaders' tendency to flatter him, risking their own credibility while navigating a complex geopolitical landscape.
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Questionable Value Of Article-5 Lookalikes
- An Article 5-like guarantee without NATO membership is likely hollow and raises credibility questions.
- If guarantors won't put troops in harm's way, such promises may be worthless in a crisis.
Zelensky's Flexibility May Be Tactical
- Zelensky's public flexibility on territory may be tactical rather than a firm commitment.
- Any territorial concession is dubious without believable Russian guarantees and Ukrainian consent via constitutional rules.
Trump Echoing Putin Risks Normalizing Conquest
- Trump adopted Putin's lines, rejecting ceasefire demands and endorsing dubious territorial deals.
- Western leaders must question whether humiliating concessions would normalize conquest by force.