Putin Wants to Absorb Neighboring Territories, Including Ukraine and Belarus: Scholz

The Chancellor of Germany, Olaf Scholz, deems it necessary to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine. During a government press conference, he mentioned that Berlin has been in talks with its most important allies regarding this matter for quite some time. This discussion also pertains to the preparedness to ensure security after the war's conclusion, Scholz stated.

In response to a question from DW, the German Chancellor emphasized that the conversation could not be about "freezing the war in some way and legitimizing Russia's aggressive campaign," as some have suggested. He termed the war waged by Russia against Ukraine as transformative because, in his opinion, it has nullified the understanding in Europe that borders should not be changed by force.

“Clearly, the President of the Russian Federation wants to absorb some neighboring territories. He has a plan for Ukraine, and quite evidently, this is also his plan for Belarus,” asserted the head of the German government.

“For this reason, it is very important that we support Ukraine, and that is why it is essential that we have very concrete talks regarding security guarantees. And it is crucial to be clear that we will support Ukraine for as long as it needs that support. We will not accept a forced peace; Russia must withdraw its troops,” Scholz added.

It is noteworthy that earlier, Scholz announced plans to speak with Putin in the near future.