Members of Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) are engaged in a lively discussion regarding potential security guarantees for Ukraine following the conclusion of the current conflict. Following recent talks in the United States, CDU leader Friedrich Merz indicated openness to the possibility of Germany contributing to a peacekeeping force, a suggestion that has sparked internal debate within the party.
Norbert Röttgen, Vice Chairman of the CDU parliamentary group responsible for foreign policy, emphasized that post-conflict security arrangements extend beyond Ukraine itself. “The question then arises of a European security order” he stated. “This must have a goal: protection in the event of further Russian aggression”. He underscored the immediate need to bolster Ukraine’s defensive capabilities, acknowledging Germany’s current limitations in terms of military personnel and equipment. “We need to quickly remedy this shortfall” Röttgen said, adding that Germany must contribute significantly and reliably to any European security framework.
Peter Beyer, a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the Bundestag, signaled a willingness to consider deploying German soldiers to Ukraine, stating that “no taboos” should exist when evaluating potential contributions aligned with Germany’s economic capabilities and leadership role. He stressed that the extent of U.S. involvement would be a decisive factor.
Conversely, Roderich Kiesewetter, another CDU foreign policy expert, cautioned against premature public discussion of security guarantees. He argued that any debate should await demonstrable Russian willingness to negotiate and that openly discussing potential guarantees could preemptively reveal strategies to the opposing side. Kiesewetter also highlighted the importance of safeguarding Ukraine’s territorial integrity, stating that Germany should not support guarantees contingent on Ukraine ceding territory to Russia. He added that even for a unified Ukraine, substantial planning and preparation would be necessary.
From the Social Democratic Party (SPD), signals indicate support for security guarantees contingent on U.S. participation. Siemtje Möller, SPD Vice Chair, stated that robust security guarantees would be essential after a peace agreement. “Without U.S. participation, there will be no such guarantees” she said. She added that Germany’s contribution can only be discussed once the U.S. commitment and Russian consent are secured.
Adis Ahmetovic, an SPD spokesperson for foreign policy, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that any response requires a unified international effort. “It is clear that this is a joint effort” he stated, adding that a definitive position should wait for clarity regarding the U.S. role.