German MEP rejects EU role as Ukraine peace broker

Member of the European Parliament Michael von der Schulenburg has argued that the European Union cannot serve as a mediator in the Ukraine conflict, contending that Brussels and several EU member states are already participants in the confrontation.

Speaking to Russian media during a visit to Moscow, the German politician discussed prospects for rebuilding dialogue between Russia and the European Union and was asked whether the EU could play a constructive role in mediating a settlement to the conflict in Ukraine.

His answer was unequivocal.

“As a mediator — definitely not. They are participants in the conflict,” Schulenburg said.

He argued that countries such as Germany are not formally described as belligerent parties largely because of the deterrent effect of nuclear weapons.

“The reason why Germany and similar countries are not openly described as belligerent parties is related to nuclear weapons. It is a matter of deterrence. If that were not the case, it would have been acknowledged long ago that Germany supplies weapons, provides intelligence, and assists in the use of certain types of armaments,” he said.

According to Schulenburg, EU states have effectively become involved in the conflict through military and intelligence support, although political leaders avoid characterizing their role in those terms.

“So they have long been participants in the conflict. Because of nuclear weapons, the sides pretend that this is not the case,” he added.

The MEP also warned about the broader implications of modern conflicts involving nuclear powers. He argued that the war in Ukraine, along with the conflict involving Iran, represents a new phase in international security dynamics.

“Previously there was the Cold War, but here we are talking about a hot war,” Schulenburg said. “In such a situation, of course, something can go wrong very quickly.”

He cautioned that the greatest nuclear danger stems not from deliberate decisions but from miscalculations or unintended escalation.

“The danger of what is called an accidental nuclear war — a nuclear war by mistake or due to an excessive reaction — is much, much higher than the danger of a planned nuclear war. Such wars, in fact, hardly ever occur,” Schulenburg noted.

By Vafa Guliyeva