German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. Photo courtesy of Anadolu.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Berlin is open to participating in negotiations on ending the war in Ukraine but will not offer concessions to Moscow.
Wadephul spoke at the Ukraine Forum “Cafe Kyiv” in Berlin, stressing that any talks must be led by Kyiv, with Germany joining only if hostilities pause.
He said Berlin expects Russia to respond to reasonable proposals but will not approach Moscow with demands that compromise German or European positions.
Calls from members of the Social Democratic Party to propose ceasefire talks were rejected. Wadephul noted that dialogue is impossible if one party is unwilling to engage sincerely.
The minister reiterated that Germany aims to maintain firm pressure on Russia to encourage serious negotiations.
He said Berlin will continue to support Ukraine and coordinate with European allies to strengthen diplomatic and economic leverage.
Wadephul highlighted the preparation of the 20th sanctions package against Russia and expressed confidence in its successful adoption.
Officials said his remarks came ahead of a European Union foreign ministers meeting in Brussels, where Germany and its partners will discuss strategies on the Ukraine conflict.
