German defence minister pushes for tougher stance on Russia
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is calling on the West to toughen sanctions against Russia and increase support for Ukraine after Russia's refusal to halt hostilities.
What do you need to know?
- German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius emphasized the need for increased sanctions on Russia and greater military support for Ukraine. His comments came following Russia's rejection of a ceasefire.
- Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul observed that Europe is not planning to impose new sanctions on Russia immediately, as they are awaiting the meeting set for Thursday between Russian and Ukrainian representatives.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced his readiness to negotiate with Vladimir Putin in Turkey, underlining that the talks will focus exclusively on stopping the hostilities.
Why must the West increase sanctions?
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius urged tougher sanctions against Russia and enhanced military support for Ukraine, responding to Russia's continued aggression. Pistorius pointed out that Russian President Vladimir Putin acts predictably in such scenarios. Further steps are needed concerning sanctions and additional support for Ukraine, Pistorius informed journalists in Berlin.
Will Europe impose new sanctions on Russia?
Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul urged caution about the immediate imposition of new sanctions on Russia, highlighting that Europe is awaiting Thursday’s meeting between Russian and Ukrainian representatives. I'm waiting for Thursday when a meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian sides might take place, Wadephul stated in Berlin.
What are Ukraine's plans for negotiations?
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his willingness to negotiate with Vladimir Putin in Turkey. Zelensky stressed that the discussions will exclusively address stopping hostilities. Zelensky's advisor, Mykhailo Podolyak, noted that the Ukrainian President will only discuss the cessation of hostilities with Putin.
