Wadephul To Discuss With US And Other Counterparts The Need To Reach Out To Moscow

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is set to discuss the need to engage with Russia in order to bring an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He expressed these sentiments in an interview with German radio Deutschlandfunk, while en route from Ukraine, according to UATV English. Wadephul plans to speak with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to share his impressions from his recent visit to Ukraine and to urge him to take a more active role in the matter.

The minister believes that while the US should step up its efforts to resolve the situation in Ukraine, other countries with closer ties to Russia, such as Turkey, Gulf states, Egypt, and others, could also play a significant role in influencing Moscow. He emphasized that Russia's military ambitions, as initially planned by President Putin, have failed, and the war should thus conclude as soon as possible.

Wadephul highlighted the immense casualties among Russian forces and the negative impact it is having on the country. He is determined to convey to his colleagues the importance of bolstering Ukrainian air defense capabilities, particularly for nations that still possess Patriot air defense systems, such as Spain, Greece, Japan, and South Korea. Although none of his interlocutors have explicitly promised assistance, no one has outright refused either.

The German diplomat stressed that Ukraine's situation goes beyond merely discussing sovereignty and freedom. In fact, the federal government is already working on preparations for Ukraine's winter, calling for increased municipal partnerships to support the nation. This is Wadephul's fourth visit to Ukraine, during which he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara, and discussed financing for Ukraine's defense, air defense systems, and long-term cooperation opportunities.