At the current security conference in Munich, which deals with current issues in security and foreign policy, the main topic is obvious: the situation in Ukraine.

Despite this, the main actor, Russia, has chosen not to send any delegates.

"Will defend every millimeter"

Powerful leaders from over 30 countries are attending the conference, along with many other delegates.

The keynote speaker after a series of world leaders was US Vice President Kamala Harris, who chose to speak plainly:

- I can say with certainty that if Russia invades Ukraine, the United States, together with our allies and partners, will inflict unparalleled economic costs on Russia.

Harris also listed a number of retaliatory measures that the United States will take if it does happen, and was very clear that these are more than far-reaching financial sanctions.

- We will not stop at financial measures.

We will further strengthen our NATO allies on the eastern flank.

In fact, together we have already taken measures to act as a deterrent and strengthen our common defense.

Another 6,000 US troops have been sent to Romania, Poland and Germany and 8,500 troops have been deployed in the United States.

At the same time, Kamala Harris repeated President Joe Biden's words that the country's forces will not be deployed in Ukraine.

- But they will defend every millimeter of NATO territory.

Unified message

The West has recently made a clear point of showing a united front vis-à-vis Russia.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who slammed President Vladimir Putin in his speech, also issued a warning to Russia that "extensive economic sanctions await" Moscow in the event of a military attack.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized that it is not too late to turn around.

- We once again ask Russia to do what is said, to withdraw its troops from the border with Russia.

It is not too late yet for Moscow.

According to Stoltenberg, if Russia still chooses to attack, it will be counterproductive.

- If the Kremlin's goal is to have a smaller NATO presence at its borders, this will only mean the opposite, says Stoltenberg, and adds that they "will take all measures to protect their allies".

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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz sharply criticizes Putin in his speech: "Completely unjustified."

Photo: Reuters