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German Vice Chancellor said that Berlin will work alongside European partners to shape a security framework that prevents any future aggression from Russia
German Finance Minister and Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil. (AP file photo)
German Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil on Monday said that Berlin is ready to take part in providing security guarantees for Ukraine, once the war with Russia comes to an end.
During his first official visit to Kyiv, Klingbeil said that Berlin will work alongside European partners to shape a security framework that prevents any future aggression from Russia. However, he stressed that any agreement must be shaped with Ukraine’s involvement.
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“What’s important is that, in the end, there are security guarantees that ensure Ukraine is no longer attacked and that Putin no longer dares to attack Ukraine,” said Klingbeil.
The German vice chancellor, who also serves as finance minister, said the talks on security guarantees are still at an early stage, but Germany is ready to “assume responsibility”.
He added that discussions must not happen “over the heads of Ukrainians” and should begin only with a ceasefire.
“In close coordination with (Chancellor Friedrich Merz), I am seeking to exchange ideas on how Germany can best support Ukraine in a possible peace process,” Klingbeil said in a statement.
He also underlined the need to strengthen the Ukrainian army and increase arms production inside Ukraine to help secure the country in the long term.
The issue of security guarantees is considered a key step in achieving a lasting peace, though it remains a complex topic with no clear roadmap yet.
Klingbeil said the situation largely depends on Russia. “The ball is now in Vladimir Putin’s court. I believe that we still have a very long way to go, because I cannot yet see Vladimir Putin changing his mind, suddenly relenting, suddenly wanting to hold real, serious, sustainable peace talks,” he said.
On Sunday, Ukraine marked its Independence Day, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy saying the presence of foreign troops after the war would be “important” for national security.
However, Russia has strongly opposed the idea of Western troops being stationed in Ukraine.
Hopes for a peace deal faded further after the Kremlin ruled out a meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin, despite recent efforts by US President Donald Trump to arrange a summit between the two leaders.
(With inputs from agencies)
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The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d…Read More
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d… Read More
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