German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that Russia’s goal of demilitarizing Ukraine “should not happen,” emphasizing that a strong military remains the country’s most important security guarantee.
Scholz called on March 13 for continued long-term support for Ukraine, not only until peace is achieved but beyond.
He said the ceasefire currently under discussion presents an opportunity to explore long-term peace efforts, which could include measures such as a prisoner exchange or the return of abducted individuals.
His remarks echo those of French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu, who recently urged European leaders to reject any calls for Ukraine’s demilitarization.
Earlier, Armin Papperger, CEO of German defense manufacturer Rheinmetall, said the company is ready to support a potential international peacekeeping mission in Ukraine. While noting that discussions remain theoretical, he stated that Rheinmetall could provide “over 2,000 items” for the initiative.
-21d0b63c17f6020e4df75f6c6f9a2f4f.jpg "Ivan Khomenko")
