German Foreign Minister discusses peace negotiations regarding Ukraine and Europe’s role
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has expressed that European nations must proactively outline their future relationship with Russia as discussions for peace in Ukraine may soon commence.
She emphasized that it is crucial for Europe to participate in negotiations, asserting that the United States should not maintain a monopoly over peace talks, given that the conflict is occurring on European soil. Baerbock stated that any agreements to halt hostilities must prioritize Ukrainian approval.
Baerbock acknowledged that while Europe holds no grievances against the Russian populace, there are substantial issues with the current Russian regime, which instigated and continues the war against Ukraine. She remarked that European security should be built in opposition to Russia rather than in collaboration with it.
Just days prior, Baerbock suggested that the possible attendance of Russian President Vladimir Putin at the upcoming G20 summit could signal the onset of serious negotiations aimed at ending the war initiated by Russia. She also met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during the UN General Assembly in New York, although no consensus was reached on critical issues.
Context
- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on September 23 the invitation extended to Putin for the G20 summit.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated he is willing to meet Putin in the U.S. during the G20 summit if he attends.
- Bloomberg reported, citing Kremlin sources, that Putin is likely to skip the G20 summit amid concerns of confrontation with Western allies of Ukraine from Europe, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and Australia.
