German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has reiterated his unwavering support for Ukraine, emphasizing the need for extensive military aid to ensure the country's long-term defense capabilities.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference (MSC), Scholz stressed that any negotiated settlement must respect Ukraine’s "sovereign independence" and allow it to fend off future Russian aggression.
"At the end of any negotiated settlement, Ukraine must have armed forces with which it can fend off any renewed Russian attack. Financially, materially, and logistically, this will be an enormous challenge," Scholz stated, highlighting the crucial role of European and US support.
He also warned that a Russian victory or Ukraine’s collapse would not lead to peace. In a clear rejection of any externally imposed settlement, Scholz said Berlin would not support a "dictated peace." His remarks followed former US President Donald Trump's claim that he had devised a "peace plan" after speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Scholz takes aim at far-right and US interference
During his speech, Scholz strongly condemned far-right forces and anti-democratic movements, delivering a direct rebuke to Germany's AfD party and its foreign supporters. His comments were seen as a response to US billionaire Elon Musk, a key advisor to Trump, who has expressed backing for the far-right AfD.
"Germany will not accept outside intervention in its elections. That is not appropriate—especially not among friends and allies," Scholz declared. He underscored that defending democracy against fascism and authoritarianism remains a cornerstone of the transatlantic alliance.
Scholz also criticized US Vice President J.D. Vance’s remarks at the MSC, in which Vance accused European nations of suppressing free speech and undermining democracy.
German Chancellor rejected these claims, emphasizing that Germany's democratic principles are rooted in a firm stance against far-right extremism.
