A senior figure within Germany’s largest center-right opposition bloc, the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, has cast significant doubt on the prospect of a near-term peace agreement for Ukraine, raising concerns about escalating geopolitical tensions and questioning President Putin’s commitment to diplomacy.
Speaking to RBB-Inforadio on Monday, Jürgen Hardt, the Union faction’s spokesperson for foreign policy, expressed skepticism, suggesting that Vladimir Putin remains intent on pursuing military victory in Ukraine rather than engaging in genuine peace negotiations. Hardt stated his belief that Putin is actively attempting to stall international efforts and deceive both the United States and European Union partners, fueled by a conviction that victory within Ukraine is achievable.
This stance carries significant implications for Europe. Hardt argued that Putin systematically dismisses any proposals put forward by the European Union, in conjunction with the United States and Ukraine, as insufficient. Crucially, he noted that these proposals, despite being rejected by Moscow, would actually represent considerable gains for Russia – citing potential territorial acquisitions as an example. This observation underscores a frustrating dynamic where even offers that appear advantageous to Russia are deemed inadequate, suggesting a lack of genuine willingness to compromise.
Hardt’s assessment effectively dismisses the possibility of a peace settlement based on the framework recently agreed upon in Berlin. His commentary highlights a deepening pessimism amongst some within German political circles concerning the viability of a negotiated solution and the challenges of engaging with a Kremlin seemingly determined on a prolonged conflict. The remarks are likely to fuel debate within the EU regarding the appropriate level and type of continued support for Ukraine and potentially influence the strategic calculations of policymakers grappling with the evolving security landscape in Europe.