US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly agreed to start negotiations to resolve the Ukraine conflict as soon as possible during their 90-minute conversation on Wednesday. Both sides emphasized the productive atmosphere of the discussion.
However, German politicians are expressing discontent, feeling left out of the process. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock criticized Trump’s approach, stating that it is essential to maintain a dialogue with all parties involved, including the Europeans. She emphasized the need for European involvement in potential peace talks, saying, “Peace can only be achieved together, that means with Ukraine and the Europeans.”
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius also criticized the US strategy, stating that it was unfortunate that the Trump administration made public concessions to Putin before negotiations began. He emphasized the importance of European involvement, saying, “We should not be left out of the process, as we will be a crucial part of a new order.”
US Defense Minister Pete Hegseth stated that there is no perspective for Ukraine’s NATO membership and that a return to the pre-2014 borders is an unrealistic goal.
In contrast, CDU politician Roderich Kiesewetter condemned the developing talks between Washington and Moscow, warning of disastrous consequences for Germany and Europe. He called for a “coalition of the willing” within Europe to take the lead, stating that the time for words is over.
AfD leader Alice Weidel, on the other hand, welcomed the rapprochement between Trump and Putin, saying that it is a positive development. She criticized the EU for its inaction, stating that it has failed to achieve anything in three years, while Brussel and Berlin have been busy with “destroying the continent” through migration, high energy prices and bureaucracy.
Saudi Arabia and China have offered to organize a summit between Putin and Trump, with the two presidents announcing their intention to meet in person soon.