Scholz denounces Putin's "war-oriented" peace offer in Bundestag
27 June 2024 17:43
During his address to the Bundestag, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed concern over the "Kremlin's peace plan" regarding the war with Ukraine. The German politician warned that Vladimir Putin is still "geared towards war." He added that Moscow will persistently pursue turmoil and impose conditions under which Ukraine "will not be able to survive."
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke ahead of upcoming NATO and European Union summits. During his speech in the Bundestag, the politician commented on Western support for Ukraine in the face of ongoing Russian aggression. He emphasised that Moscow is still focused on warfare and armament.
The German Chancellor said Russia does not want peace, and this cannot be ignored. He noted that the Russian leader's offer of a supposed ceasefire best demonstrates Russia's plans and expectations.
What are the terms of the truce between Russia and Ukraine?
The Russian proposal involves handing over a vast portion of Ukrainian territory to Moscow, including areas not currently annexed by the Russian Federation. The West, on the other hand, will cease providing military aid to Ukraine, and Kyiv must abandon its plans to join the European community.
The Chancellor commented on this Russian concept as "imaginary." It is worth taking a closer look at what it encompasses: not only a ceasefire but also the surrender of territories. Ukraine is also obligated to demilitarise and refuse any military assistance in the future.
Scholz on Putin: He does not want peace
Anyone who believes that Ukraine will survive this and a vital peace will emerge in Europe is probably watching too much Russia Today - stated Scholz. He referred to the propagandistic messages of the pro-Kremlin agency.
Scholz emphasised that Ukraine is fighting for a "just peace" and does not intend to submit to Putin's plans for "new aggression." According to the German politician, the Russian proposal is not feasible, and Putin must understand that subjugating Ukraine is unrealistic.
The Chancellor believes that continued Western military and financial support for Ukraine will be a clear signal to Putin. Scholz pointed out that the Russian dictator likely expected Europe's aid for Kyiv to diminish, but the recent decisions by the G7 should dispel these assumptions.
Scholz referred to agreements foreseeing a Western £41 billion loan for Ukraine. According to the Chancellor, this is a "clear signal to Putin", who hoped that Western financial support for Kyiv would end due to budgetary constraints. - The German Chancellor stated that this calculation collapsed with the G7's decision.
