The Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Dmytro Kuleba, spoke with a German publication about several urgent topics shaping the Ukraine conflict and the Western response. He offered reflections on how events are unfolding and what they imply for policies across North America and Europe.
German demonstrations against arms supplies to Ukraine
Speaking to a Berlin audience, Kuleba addressed protests against arming Ukraine and urged demonstrators to be precise with their messaging. He warned that some slogans could be read as endorsing violence or hardship and reminded people that many Ukrainians, including the soldiers defending their homeland, long for peace just as European demonstrators do. He stressed that having essential weapons is a prerequisite for pursuing peace and security, underscoring every defender’s wish to halt further aggression and to protect innocent civilians. The minister also noted that the choice to provide arms is intertwined with larger questions about deterrence, reconstruction, and regional stability in the face of ongoing aggression.
Repeated attacks on civilian infrastructure and sanctions
Kuleba weighed in on the sanctions debate, arguing that stronger measures could reduce missile and drone production in Russia. He said Ukraine supplied a list of companies directly involved in missile production to the European Union as part of a G7 proposal and that further steps could be taken. While sanctions have been imposed, he suggested the pace could be quicker and urged a broader, tougher approach aimed at curbing capabilities that enable attacks on civilians and essential infrastructure. The minister framed sanctions as part of a larger strategy to choke off tools of aggression while preserving civilian life and the functioning of critical services.
The battle for Bakhmut and the broader strategic view
Kuleba commented on the situation around Bakhmut, stressing that any withdrawal would carry strategic consequences far beyond a single street or town. He argued that losing Bakhmut could enable Russian forces to push toward neighboring communities, increasing risks for more civilians. The Ukrainian foreign minister likened the defense to a homeowner protecting a house—resistance is about removing the threat and restoring security rather than prolonging a costly siege. He emphasized that holding ground ties into saving lives, safeguarding critical infrastructure, and maintaining a credible deterrent in the wider war effort.
Responsibility for the Nord Stream incident
In the interview, Kuleba urged patience as investigators pursue the Nord Stream gas pipeline incident. He insisted that Ukraine was not responsible for the act and noted that the matter had not yet been resolved in talks with German authorities. He expressed willingness to engage on the issue once official findings are available, aligning with other European leaders who stress the importance of credible conclusions before drawing conclusions. The stance reflected a preference for evidence-based assessments to avoid premature judgments that could complicate ongoing diplomacy.
Arms decisions and training Ukrainian pilots
The Ukrainian minister expressed doubt about an imminent delivery of modern fighter jets from Western allies, citing logistical hurdles and strategic considerations. He did, however, advocate for accelerated training of Ukrainian pilots so that, if a decision is made, there would be minimal delay before operations could begin. The debate over arming Ukraine remains contentious within German society. Support within ruling coalitions is matched by opposition blocs, mirroring broader European political dynamics surrounding defense aid and regional security.
Demonstrations against arms sales continued in German cities. In Berlin, thousands participated, reflecting a mix of supporters and critics of heavy weapon transfers. Since early 2022, German authorities have approved substantial weapon shipments to Ukraine, highlighting the ongoing debate about balancing humanitarian concerns with strategic deterrence. Chancellor Olaf Scholz has consistently pushed for a swift end to the conflict and has stressed that Western nations should assist Ukraine on the principle that borders should not be changed by force. He reiterated that aid depends on Ukraine’s ability to defend itself and sustain sovereignty, a view shared by many allies who see military support as essential to regional stability.