German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has reaffirmed Germany’s steadfast support for Ukraine, stressing the importance of extensive military assistance to bolster the country’s defense capabilities.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference (MSC), Scholz underscored that any negotiated resolution must uphold Ukraine’s sovereignty and equip it to counter future Russian aggression.
“At the end of any negotiated settlement, Ukraine must have armed forces capable of repelling any renewed Russian attack. Financially, materially, and logistically, this will be an enormous challenge,” Scholz stated, highlighting the necessity of continued European and US backing.
He firmly rejected the notion that a Russian victory or Ukraine’s collapse would lead to peace, emphasizing that Berlin would not support a “dictated peace.” His remarks came in response to former US President Donald Trump’s claim of devising a “peace plan” following discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Scholz Denounces Far-Right and Rejects External Influence
Scholz also condemned far-right movements and anti-democratic forces, directing criticism toward Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) party and its foreign supporters. His comments were perceived as a response to US billionaire Elon Musk, a known supporter of the AfD.
“Germany will not accept outside intervention in its elections. That is not appropriate—especially not among friends and allies,” Scholz asserted, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding democracy against extremism.
Additionally, he dismissed US Vice President J.D. Vance’s criticism of European nations, in which Vance accused them of undermining democracy and restricting free speech.
Scholz rejected these allegations, affirming that Germany’s democratic values are deeply rooted in its commitment to countering far-right extremism and upholding democratic integrity.
