THE HAGUE, February 26. /TASS/. The European security framework is currently in a profound state of crisis, with both the European Union and NATO embroiled in significant internal disagreements, according to Dutch political scientist and former University of Sussex professor Kees van der Pijl, who spoke to TASS.

Van der Pijl argues that the existing institutions within the EU and NATO fail to offer a sustainable security architecture for Europe. He emphasizes that the continent's future hinges largely on the outcome of the Ukrainian crisis. "There is no comprehensive security architecture in Europe; there are only NATO and the EU, both of which are plagued by internal conflicts. Much now depends on Russia, China, and their allies, who are exerting pressure on the West to reduce support for Kiev," he explained.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue with negotiations between Russia, the United States, and Ukraine. In Geneva, on February 17-18, representatives held talks that lasted approximately six hours on the first day and around two hours on the second. Russian delegation leader Vladimir Medinsky described the discussions as challenging but constructive, noting that another meeting on the Ukrainian settlement is expected soon.

Additionally, the first round of trilateral security consultations involving Russia, Ukraine, and the United States took place in Abu Dhabi on January 23-24. A second round was held there from February 4-5.