Tensions Ease in Germany-Ukraine Relationship: No Looming Conflict for Ukrainians
In the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has lasted nearly four and a half years, the German government has reiterated its stance on the importance of Ukraine's direct involvement in any peace talks.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed his belief that a lasting and just peace is only imaginable with Ukraine's involvement. He also considers it inconceivable to achieve peace without the Ukrainian people's involvement.
The German government spokesman, however, did not provide further details about the German position, but he did mention the potential risks of public statements that could change the course of events or endanger them.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to meet on Friday in the US state of Alaska. Trump has spoken of a potential land swap between Ukraine and Russia in the context of the meeting, but the German government spokesman did not discuss this potential land swap.
The German government spokesman also did not discuss the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine or express a position on the significance of the meeting between Trump and Putin. However, the meeting is considered a significant moment by the German government for the further course of the war in Ukraine.
The German federal government has emphasized Ukraine's involvement in any potential peace solution. Chancellor Merz has also expressed support for Ukraine's involvement in any such talks.
European Council President Antonio Costa and others have underscored the importance of respecting Ukraine’s sovereignty and its role in determining conditions for peace. Excluding Ukraine from negotiations risks undermining the legitimacy and durability of any peace agreement and could lead to behind-the-scenes obstacles, as suggested by Russian resistance to direct talks with Zelenskyy until preliminary conditions are met.
In conclusion, Germany's stance is that excluding Ukraine from negotiations raises serious concerns about the legitimacy, durability, and fairness of peace processes, and that any meaningful peace talks require Ukraine’s full participation along with coordinated security guarantees from Europe and the U.S.
The German federal government strongly advocates for Ukraine's participation in any peace negotiations related to the ongoing Russian invasion. Chancellor Merz expresses his view that the Ukrainian people's involvement is crucial for achieving a lasting and just peace.
European Council President Antonio Costa, along with others, highlights the importance of respecting Ukraine’s sovereignty and its role in determining conditions for peace, as excluding Ukraine from negotiations could compromise the legitimacy and durability of any peace agreement.
