Ukraine Crisis: 'Russia knows it cannot win a great power war' with EU, NATO

Amid an intensifying standoff between Russia and the West, political advisers from Russia, Ukraine, Germany and France are currently meeting in Paris. And French President Emmanuel Macron said a phone call with Putin was set for Friday. As Western leaders appeal for unity, differences have emerged among European nations over how best to respond. Prof. Dr. Sven Biscop, Director of the Europe in the World Programme at Egmont – The Royal Institute for International Relations, joins France 24, describing Europe's shift into damage control. "Clearly, they are trying to repair the image of disunity that had arisen because of President Macron's call for a new format of dialogue which didn't seem to be well discussed in advance with all partners," explains Professor Biscop, "but also with Germany creating difficulties over export of weapons towards Ukraine." The energy sector could also play a major factor in this fast-evolving standoff, the professor warns. Europe and Russia "remain mutually dependent," posing serious challenges for the West in search of a resolute response to this unfolding crisis.