Sönke Neitzel: "Peace with Russia has not worked"

Sönke Neitzel, a military historian known for his analyses of European defense strategies, has stated that efforts to achieve peace with Russia have failed. His remarks come amid growing concerns over the evolving security landscape in Europe following years of geopolitical tensions. The statement was made during a podcast interview conducted on July 17, 2026, in which Neitzel discussed the failure of diplomatic initiatives aimed at stabilizing relations with Russia. Neitzel initially predicted in early 2025 that the summer of that year might mark the last period of peace before a major escalation. However, this forecast did not materialize as anticipated. Instead, the situation has worsened, prompting questions about whether the initial assessment was incorrect or if political leaders actively undermined the prospects for stability. During the interview, he explored the reasons behind the shift in circumstances and examined how the current state of affairs compares to earlier projections. The discussion centered around the effectiveness of European defense capabilities and the potential threat posed by Russian military actions. Neitzel raised concerns about the readiness of NATO members to respond to a renewed aggressive stance from Moscow. He questioned whether the alliance had adequately prepared for scenarios involving large-scale mobilization by Russian forces, emphasizing the need for stronger collective defense mechanisms. In addition to addressing the immediate implications of the current security environment, Neitzel highlighted broader strategic challenges facing European nations. These include internal divisions within the bloc, economic pressures, and the difficulty of maintaining a unified approach to foreign policy. He noted that these factors have contributed to a lack of cohesion in diplomatic efforts, further complicating attempts to reach a lasting agreement with Russia. The conversation also touched upon public sentiment and the role of media narratives in shaping perceptions of the conflict. Neitzel acknowledged that while some segments of society advocate for continued dialogue, others call for more decisive action against perceived threats. This divergence in opinions reflects the complex nature of contemporary European politics, where national interests often take precedence over collective security goals. Looking ahead, Neitzel expressed caution about the possibility of another significant escalation. He suggested that while the likelihood of a full-scale war remains low, the risk of localized conflicts or increased military posturing continues to rise. He urged policymakers to prioritize long-term strategic planning over short-term political gains, arguing that sustainable peace requires both military preparedness and diplomatic engagement. As the interview concluded, Neitzel reiterated his belief that the pursuit of peace with Russia has not yielded the desired outcomes. He emphasized the importance of learning from past failures and adapting to the changing dynamics of international relations. His insights provide a critical perspective on the ongoing challenges faced by Europe in navigating its relationship with a powerful neighbor.