I have also been saddened, though hardly surprised, by the weakness of the EU’s reaction to the criminal attack on the Danish embassy in Syria, which seems to have been permitted, if not actively encouraged, by the Syrian regime.

In the quote under consideration, Timothy Garton Ash expresses his disappointment regarding the European Union's response to a criminal attack on the Danish embassy in Syria. According to Ash, this reaction was weak and did not adequately address the severity of the incident. He also suggests that the Syrian regime might have tolerated or even supported such an attack.

Digging deeper into Ash’s statement reveals a broader critique of how the EU deals with political instability and violence abroad, particularly when these events are linked to regimes it has diplomatic relations with. The quote highlights concerns about the effectiveness and moral integrity of international organizations in responding to crises that involve human rights violations and threats to diplomatic missions. Additionally, it raises questions about the level of commitment and solidarity within the EU when member countries face challenges overseas.

Timothy Garton Ash is a renowned British historian and journalist known for his work on European politics and democracy. His insights often focus on issues related to freedom of speech, press rights, and international relations, reflecting a deep understanding of Europe’s complex political landscape.

" I have also been saddened, though hardly surprised, by the weakness of the EU’s reaction to the criminal attack on the Danish embassy in Syria, which seems to have been permitted, if not actively encouraged, by the Syrian regime. " - Timothy Garton Ash

" I have also been saddened, though hardly surprised, by the weakness of the EU’s reaction to the criminal attack on the Danish embassy in Syria, which seems to have been permitted, if not actively encouraged, by the Syrian regime. "
- Timothy Garton Ash