German media about Trump-Putin talks: Ukrainian concerns and European stakes

German media do not hold back on criticism following the phone conversation between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. Commentators emphasize that the President of Russia seeks to weaken Ukraine and pull it into his sphere of influence, and the US President, perceived as a Russian agent, may be at a disadvantage in this political exchange.

Nikolas Busse from "Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung" notes that "Putin treats Trump like his agent." "The goal of the Russian President is a weakened Ukraine that he can once again incorporate into his domain," writes Busse. He emphasizes that America should avoid engaging in this strategy, as it would be an unfavourable "deal" for them.

Putin may treat Trump as the handler of his agent. The US President breaks Kyiv's resistance for him and aims to secure a similar stance among Europeans, as much depends on them in terms of military assistance — explains Busse.

Stefan Kornelius from "Sueddeutsche Zeitung" adds that Trump's discussion with Putin did not yield concrete results, and the US President has found himself in a game that he might lose. Kornelius stresses that Trump needs to understand that his notions of speed and transactional negotiations carry little weight in Putin's world.

Mareike Mueller from "Handelsblatt" assesses that the phone conversation between Trump and Putin did not lead to a breakthrough and only weakened the US President's standing. Mueller notes that a 30-day pause in attacks on energy infrastructure does not equate to a comprehensive ceasefire. "Washington must now demonstrate its ability to stand firm against Russia," writes Mueller.

Stefan Schocher from "Die Welt" notes that negotiations between Trump and Putin, without Kyiv's involvement, evoke negative memories in Ukraine. "What Trump describes as a 'deal' is, in reality, an expression of colonization for Ukraine," writes Schocher.

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Josef Wagner from "Bild" reminds readers that hundreds of drones were launched toward Ukraine after Trump and Putin's conversation. "Trump says the conversation was great. Perhaps hockey players will face off again. And people will continue to die," reads the "Bild."

German media emphasize that the outcome of Trump and Putin's talks is a dilution of Russia's accountability for the war. Commentators point out that Russia's strategy is to wait until Trump loses interest in Ukraine, which may have serious repercussions for Europe.