German Chancellor Olaf Scholz met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Berlin on Friday, reiterating Germany’s unwavering support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. During a joint press briefing, Scholz emphasized that Germany would not accept a peace settlement dictated by Russia.
“We will not let up in our support for Ukraine,” Scholz stated, “Ukraine peace can only be brought about on the basis of international law, and we will not accept a peace dictated by Russia.”
Zelenskyy, who has been on a whirlwind European tour, arrived in Berlin seeking fresh military and financial assistance from his European allies. The Ukrainian President expressed his hope for an end to the war by 2025 and stressed the importance of consistent support from international partners.
“I would like to see it no later than next year, 2025,” Zelenskyy stated. “It is very important for us that this assistance does not decrease next year.”
Zelenskyy’s tour, encompassing London, Paris, Rome, and now Berlin, comes amid growing anxieties about potential waning Western support, particularly if Donald Trump is elected President of the United States next month.
Germany has emerged as a major military aid supplier to Ukraine, second only to the United States, providing weapons, including long-range missiles. However, Scholz has declined to send the German Taurus missile system, citing concerns about escalating tensions with nuclear-armed Russia.
The meeting between Scholz and Zelenskyy took place just as a planned Ukraine defense meeting at the Ramstein US air base in Germany was postponed due to the cancellation of President Joe Biden’s state visit caused by Hurricane Milton.
Meanwhile, Russia continues to make advancements on the eastern frontline, targeting Ukraine’s power grid as the country faces a harsh winter. Moscow reported capturing the villages of Zhelanne Druge and Ostrivske, adding to its recent territorial gains.
Zelenskyy has consistently pressed for permission to utilize long-range weapons, including British Storm Shadow missiles, provided by allies to strike military targets deep within Russia. However, Washington and London have hesitated to grant approval, fearing potential escalation and drawing NATO allies into direct conflict with Russia.
The meeting in Berlin further underscores the ongoing efforts of Western nations to support Ukraine as it navigates the brutal conflict with Russia and prepares for a difficult winter ahead.
