Historian Christopher Clark Urges Renewed Dialog with Putin, Warns Against Seeking ‘Permanent Victory’ Over Russia
CAMBRIDGE – Historian Christopher Clark, renowned for his analysis of the origins of World War I, is calling for a resumption of talks between European leaders and Russian President Vladimir Putin to prevent further escalation of the conflict in Ukraine. Clark, a professor at Cambridge University, argues that a lasting peace and a viable future for Europe necessitate engagement with Russia.
“Of course the big war must be avoided,” Clark told the editorial network Germany (RND).”That means three things: Firstly, talks must be resumed. Secondly, there is no realistic, humane future for europe without Russia. We will have to find future plans in which Russia has a place. And thirdly, we will have to abandon the idea that there can be a permanent ‘victory’ over Russia.” He emphasized the importance of defending European values “politically and militarily,” while concurrently pursuing dialogue.
Clark criticized the current lack of European unity, stating it projects an image of unseriousness to Putin. “But if the Europeans act resolutely, strong, unified, but also smart and prudent, then Putin will act differently. He is not a madman,” he asserted.
The historian also addressed the rhetoric surrounding former U.S. President Donald Trump, cautioning against labeling his policies as “fascist.” He argued such terminology is ”of limited cognitive value” and hinders understanding. “Anyone who talks about ‘fascism’ is, in my understanding, charting a path that ends in the totalitarian takeover of power,” Clark explained to RND. “In my opinion, this path has not yet been definitively mapped out.”
Clark’s work, notably “The Sleepwalkers: How Europe Went to War in 1914,” examines the complex factors leading to the First World War, challenging conventional narratives of blame.
source: ntv.de
