US and Europe Consider Establishing Ukrainian Government-in-Exile

Published 07 Mar.2022 11:12(KST)

Considering Relocation to Poland in Case of Capital Fall

Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine <br>[Photo by AP News]

Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine
[Photo by AP News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] The United States and Europe are considering ways to support the establishment of an exile government for Ukraine.

According to CNN on the 6th (local time), the U.S. and Europe are discussing plans to assist Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and senior officials in relocating to the western city of Lviv (Lviv).

Furthermore, if a situation arises where President Zelensky and officials must flee abroad, they are even considering establishing an exile government in Poland.

A source stated, "This is at an early stage of discussion, and nothing has been decided yet."

Although Russia hesitated after its invasion of Ukraine due to strong resistance, considering its recent increase in attacks targeting civilians, such measures are being reviewed.

However, since President Zelensky maintains his position to stay in the capital Kyiv (Kyiv), the U.S. and Europe are cautious about directly discussing matters related to an exile government.

Two Western diplomats said, "President Zelensky refuses any talks other than strengthening Ukraine's military efforts against Russia."

Western countries are also considering relocating one or more Zelensky government officials to a candidate site for an exile government, assuming that President Zelensky cannot or will not leave Kyiv.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in an interview with CBS on the same day that even if President Zelensky is assassinated, the continuity of the Ukrainian government will be maintained.

However, U.S. and European officials are cautious about openly supporting Ukrainian rebels to avoid direct conflict between NATO member countries and Russia.

Some officials warned The Washington Post, "From Russia's perspective, support for the Zelensky government operating in Poland could be seen as an attack by NATO allied forces."