The Peace Academy Rhineland-Palatinate strongly condemns Russia's attack on the sovereignty and civilian population of Ukraine in violation of international law. In order to protect the sovereignty of Ukraine and the lives of civilians, further escalation must now be avoided. Tough economic sanctions, arms deliveries to Ukraine and the armament of NATO states should serve to deter and contain Russia's aggression. However, we do not consider a sole focus on military armament to be expedient.

Instead, humanitarian aid and refugee protection can reduce human suffering in the short term. The great commitment of the civilian population in Germany, the neighboring countries and on the ground must be supported. However, as these efforts cannot resolve the conflict, it is clear how important it is to become less dependent on Russian oil and gas. This is a long-term project that can only be achieved by accelerating the expansion of renewable energies.

In the current situation, in addition to sanctions, seeking international talks and negotiations at all levels is the only way to achieve a ceasefire, guarantee Ukraine's right to self-determination and establish a future peace order on this basis. In the face of these challenges, the relevance of research and education in the field of civil conflict management is clearer than ever.

Dr. Charlotte Dany, Managing Director of the Peace Academy RLP

Prof. Dr. Janpeter Schilling, Academic Director of the Peace Academy RLP

The Peace Academy Rhineland-Palatinate strongly condemns Russia's attack on the sovereignty and civilian population of Ukraine in violation of international law. In order to protect the sovereignty of Ukraine and the lives of civilians, further escalation must now be avoided. Tough economic sanctions, arms deliveries to Ukraine and the armament of NATO states should serve to deter and contain Russia's aggression. However, we do not consider a sole focus on military armament to be expedient.

Instead, humanitarian aid and refugee protection can reduce human suffering in the short term. The great commitment of the civilian population in Germany, the neighboring countries and on the ground must be supported. However, as these efforts cannot resolve the conflict, it is clear how important it is to become less dependent on Russian oil and gas. This is a long-term project that can only be achieved by accelerating the expansion of renewable energies.

In the current situation, in addition to sanctions, seeking international talks and negotiations at all levels is the only way to achieve a ceasefire, guarantee Ukraine's right to self-determination and establish a future peace order on this basis. In the face of these challenges, the relevance of research and education in the field of civil conflict management is clearer than ever.

Dr. Charlotte Dany, Managing Director of the Peace Academy RLP

Prof. Dr. Janpeter Schilling, Academic Director of the Peace Academy RLP