Media: Scholz's rating dips as backing Ukraine challenges German industries

US President Joe Biden is set to meet with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and President Frank-Walter Steinmeier before returning to the United States on October 17.

President Biden regards Chancellor Scholz as a dependable ally in efforts to support Ukraine and enforce sanctions against Russia, Caliber.Az reports via The New York Times.

Scholz has notably shifted away from Germany’s post-World War II reluctance to engage in global security issues, positioning the nation as one of the largest financial backers of Ukraine's military efforts. 

However, this support has not been without its challenges; the ongoing conflict has adversely affected Germany's automotive and manufacturing industries, leading to a decline in Scholz's approval ratings.

In recognition of Scholz’s significant contributions, the White House has acknowledged his role in a complicated prisoner swap that successfully resulted in the release of three Americans detained in Russia.

“The President was very keen to visit Germany to express his gratitude to Chancellor Scholz in person,” stated White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

In addition to his meetings with German officials, President Biden will conduct a virtual gathering aimed at galvanising support for Ukraine. This event was initially planned as an in-person meeting at Ramstein Air Base in Germany last week but was postponed due to Hurricane Milton.

While in Germany, it is unlikely that President Biden will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Jean-Pierre did not confirm whether Biden intends to engage with other world leaders during his visit.

By Aghakazim Guliyev