In this special episode of the Defending Democracy podcast, we sit down with Roger Casale, former Member of the UK Parliament, one of the founders of New European People’s Forum, and a driving force behind the Westminster Alliance for Ukraine. As a long-time advocate for European solidarity and democratic resilience, Casale shares his insights on the urgent need for a united defence strategy to support Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression.
Westminster Alliance for Ukraine: Origin and Vision
The Westminster Alliance for Ukraine is a new and growing international effort aimed at mobilizing political will and public support for Ukraine’s defence, sovereignty, and democratic future. Emerging from the broader Defending Democracy Global Initiative, the Alliance serves as a platform for parliamentarians, opinion leaders, and civil society actors committed to confronting the challenges posed by authoritarianism and hybrid warfare.
When asked about his personal motivation, Roger Casale points to values: “It’s about standing up for freedom, human dignity, and international law. Ukraine’s resistance is not just a national defence—it’s a global stand for the values we share.”
The May 13 Event at Westminster
The upcoming event, “Towards an Effective European Defence Strategy for Ukraine: Making the Coalition of the Willing a Reality”, will take place at the House of Commons on May 13. It will bring together key voices to advance practical steps for coordinated European support to Ukraine. The Coalition of the Willing, a strategic initiative launched by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, aims to galvanize committed European nations into coordinated action in support of Ukraine’s defence and long-term security.
Casale emphasizes that the goal isn’t to dictate solutions but to create a network: “We’re not claiming a monopoly of wisdom. This is about asking the right questions and moving forward together.” Topics include defence integration, countering hybrid threats, and post-war peacekeeping, all within the context of a broader vision for European security.
Building European Unity – With Ukraine at the Core
While unity in Europe is a welcome outcome, Casale is clear: “We must keep our focus on Ukraine. European unity may be a by-product, but the strategic objective is to help Ukraine defend its people and sovereignty.”
The Westminster Alliance is meant to be a living initiative – one that evolves beyond this event. Future actions may include more events, policy proposals, and transnational cooperation. Casale invites listeners, especially those in media, policymaking, and civil society, to engage by contacting Defending Democracy Global, their elected representatives, media and civil society, and encouraging them to join the Alliance.
A Message of Hope and Urgency
Despite the dark realities of war, Casale remains hopeful: “The Ukrainian people, and the new Ukraine already emerging from this crisis, give me hope. This war is not only about Ukraine – it’s about defending every civilised value our societies are built on.”
His message to the international audience is unequivocal: “We may feel fortunate not to be directly affected, but this war is very much about us. The Russian invasion is a mortal assault not only on Ukraine’s existence but on the very idea of a free and democratic world.”
Xhabir Deralla
