Bundeswehr's involvement in the Ukrainian mission could potentially reach its capacity, according to the military commissioner's recent warning.
In the ongoing Ukraine crisis, the world watches as key players make their moves. One of the most significant developments has been the potential meeting between US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
However, the question of Germany's role in any potential peacekeeping mission has been a topic of much debate. As of August 2025, Germany has ruled out deploying Bundeswehr troops to Ukraine for peacekeeping, citing military capacity limits and political resistance [1][3][4][5]. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul explicitly stated that Germany would not send forces to Ukraine, noting that Germany already has a brigade stationed in Lithuania for NATO's eastern flank defense [1].
Despite this, there is some internal debate and openness in parts of German society and military circles. The German Reservist Association has expressed a willingness to contribute German soldiers to such a mission "under sensible conditions," especially if a demilitarized buffer zone can be established between Russian troops and peacekeepers—a condition currently unmet [2].
Political leaders are divided on the issue. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has shown openness to participation in a European peacekeeping force, emphasizing Germany's responsibility, but faces opposition from within his government and political parties who argue Germany lacks the capacity and there are historical sensitivities involved [3].
Public opinion is also divided but leans against deploying troops. A recent survey found 51% of Germans oppose sending Bundeswehr soldiers to Ukraine, with only 36% in favor. Opposition comes strongly from far-right, left-wing parties, and some CDU members [5].
The impact on the Bundeswehr is a significant concern. Deploying troops to Ukraine now would be a heavy burden given current Bundeswehr capabilities. Germany is currently engaged in intense military training exercises focused on NATO's eastern flank, hinting at ongoing efforts to improve military readiness but also reflecting constraints [1][4]. The Bundeswehr’s ability to sustain a prolonged foreign mission in Ukraine remains limited, contributing to political hesitance.
Meanwhile, the crisis in Ukraine continues. Ukraine reports that Russia is selling stolen Ukrainian wheat to 70 countries worldwide [6]. Green Party foreign policy expert Omid Nouripour warns that Putin's demands for Ukraine could lead to the end of Ukraine [7].
As the world waits for the potential meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin, the question of Germany's role in any peacekeeping mission remains unanswered. The debate within Germany continues, with discussions and conditions for future participation remaining open [2].
References:
- Germany rules out sending troops to Ukraine
- German Reservist Association open to sending troops to Ukraine
- German Chancellor Merz open to European peacekeeping force in Ukraine
- Bundeswehr engaged in intense military training exercises
- Public opinion divided on sending troops to Ukraine
- Russia selling stolen Ukrainian wheat worldwide
- Green Party foreign policy expert warns of Putin's demands for Ukraine
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