Germany urges shift from arms deliveries to diplomatic efforts in Ukraine

In Germany, calls are emerging to shift the approach toward the Ukraine conflict from military aid to diplomacy.

In an interview with German media, Michael Kretschmer, Prime Minister of the German federal state of Saxony, emphasized the need for stronger diplomatic efforts, as arms deliveries to Kyiv have failed to significantly alter the situation, Caliber.Az reports.

"The strategy of ending the war on the battlefield has shown little progress over the last two and a half years, despite substantial military assistance. It is time to adopt a more diplomatic approach," Kretschmer noted.

He also backed the idea of forming a contact group consisting of Germany, France, the UK, and Poland to discuss the future European order once the conflict between Russia and Ukraine ends.

Earlier, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his willingness to negotiate a resolution to the Ukraine conflict with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but made it clear that any peace efforts should not occur "behind Ukraine’s back or without consultation with partners."

Meanwhile, Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen urged Germany to set aside its "illusions" about Russia. Following a meeting between Northern European foreign ministers and German officials, Valtonen stressed that while all of Europe desires peace, "peace does not mean surrender."

"If anyone believes Putin will step back if we cease fighting, they are wrong. We must defend ourselves together, and we hope Germany will play a key role," Valtonen stated.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that Germany had softened its initial scepticism regarding Ukraine’s NATO membership, though Berlin remains cautious about provoking Russia. 

Zelenskyy acknowledged Germany’s past reservations but remarked, "Their position is now softer than it was before."

"However, they are hesitant to address the issue of membership invitations due to concerns about Russia’s reaction," he added.

The Ukrainian president also suggested that Germany’s stance might shift depending on the outcome of the U.S. elections, expressing hope that a more favourable response from Washington would follow.

Earlier, Zelenskyy had voiced optimism that Western nations would invite Ukraine to join NATO within its internationally recognized borders, reiterating that Ukraine is not negotiating NATO membership in exchange for territorial concessions.

By Tamilla Hasanova