A leading figure in German foreign policy has expressed skepticism regarding the potential outcomes of the upcoming summit between U.S. President Trump and Russian President Putin in Alaska.
Norbert Röttgen, Deputy Chairman of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group responsible for foreign policy, suggested that substantive negotiations are unlikely, stating that President Putin appears uninterested in reaching a compromise. He emphasized a fundamental divergence in objectives, with Mr. Trump reportedly seeking an end to the conflict, while President Putin’s aims, according to Mr. Röttgen, extend to the complete subjugation of Ukraine – a situation he considers a threat to European security.
Mr. Röttgen argued that Ukraine’s ongoing resistance provides a crucial window for European nations to strengthen their own defense capabilities, asserting that Europe is not yet adequately prepared to address potential threats.
He also defended recent statements by Chancellor Friedrich Merz regarding Ukraine’s willingness to discuss territorial issues, clarifying that these discussions would be limited to areas already under Russian occupation and would not involve any legal recognition of the occupation. Despite acknowledging this shift in approach, Mr. Röttgen remains pessimistic about achieving a breakthrough in negotiations, reiterating his belief that President Putin lacks the genuine intention to engage in meaningful dialogue.