Der Konflikt um die Ukraine: was wir von Egon Bahr lernen können
In: Sicherheit und Frieden: S + F = Security and Peace, Band 34, Heft 2, S. 151-156
ISSN: 0175-274X
The wider conflict between Russia and the West over Ukraine has triggered a revival of Cold War-style policies in both the political and military realms. Remembering the famous 1963 speech by Egon Bahr on "Change through Rapprochement" a number of important lessons learnt can be applied to the conflict of today. As Bahr pointed out, a realistic policy towards the Soviet Union has to be based on patience, the avoidance of open conflict through regular dialogue, entrenchment in liberal values, and cooperation in the economic realm. Even though the world of today has fundamentally changed compared to 1963, important aspects of Bahr's strategic concept are still valuable in dealing with Russia. However, their implementation hinges on the ability of the main actors - Russia and the United States - to exert a policy of realism and restraint. (S+F/Pll)