Europe and the United States currently hold differing views on key issues, but they must seek common ground — particularly in achieving peace in Ukraine.
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said this during the opening of the 61st Munich Security Conference on Friday, February 14, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.
Steinmeier said that he met with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance on the sidelines of the conference to discuss possible pathways to peace in Ukraine.
“Collective strength is what truly matters for Ukraine right now. President Trump has spoken with both Putin and President Zelensky, and I am confident that potential ways to end the war will also be central to many discussions here in Munich,” Steinmeier said.
He acknowledged that everyone wants the war to end, but the manner in which it concludes will have a lasting impact on the security order and on the strength of Europe and America’s position in the world.
Steinmeier warned that a simplistic “make a deal and leave” approach would weaken all parties involved — Ukraine, Europe, and the United States.
“Every scenario — before or after the fighting stops — requires our shared deterrence and strength. Regardless of the outcome, our support for Ukraine must continue from both Europe and the United States!” he said.
Steinmeier noted that the new U.S. administration holds a worldview significantly different from that of Europe — one that disregards established rules, partnerships, and trust.
“We cannot change this. We must accept it and deal with it. But I am convinced that it is not in the international community’s interest for this worldview to become the dominant paradigm. Lawlessness must not become the blueprint for a new world order,” he said.
Recalling February 24, 2022, the German president described it as a historic turning point, when Putin shattered Europe’s security framework. For three years, Ukrainians have fought daily for their sovereignty and freedom.
“We have stood by them for these three years — humanitarianly, financially, and above all, militarily. Germany is the world’s second-largest supporter of Ukraine after the U.S. And after three years, I can say: Europe has heard the wake-up call. So has my country,” Steinmeier said.
He said that Germany and Europe are increasing defense spending because, as threats grow, so must the ability to defend against them.
Steinmeier pointed out that NATO’s 2% GDP defense spending target, agreed upon in 2014 in Wales, was set under different circumstances.
“In the coming decades, we will have to spend significantly more than we initially agreed. There is no way around it, and every future German government must ensure the necessary financial resources,” he said.
At the same time, he stressed the need for a balanced burden-sharing between Europe and the U.S. This includes not only boosting European military capabilities but also reducing U.S. troop presence in Europe — a topic also discussed with Vice President Vance.
The Munich Security Conference, one of the most influential global security forums, is being held in Germany from February 14-16.
Photo: bundespraesident.de
2025-02-14 15:22:00 ,
