The Prime Minister of Saxony, Michael Kretschmer, criticized German diplomacy in relation to the Ukraine crisis, saying authorities have not exerted enough effort to ease the tension. He voiced these concerns in an interview with Bild am Sonntag.
Kretschmer noted that according to German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, the current priority is not negotiations but the delivery of weapons. He cautioned that many people share this worry, himself included, because diplomacy has traditionally been a tool used to resolve conflicts. He emphasized that Germany should not abandon this role, as it risks undermining peaceful avenues for resolution.
The Saxon leader was asked when the Ukraine conflict might conclude. He replied that the outcome depends on the actions of Germany and other European partners to pursue diplomatic paths, rather than solely relying on military measures.
Former German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that it would be entirely normal for the Ukrainian armed forces to operate within Russian territory if such actions were aimed at disrupting Russian supply routes. He asserted that civilian harm must be avoided during any operations and highlighted that there are defined red lines in arms supply. Pistorius also warned that requests for prohibited ammunition from Ukraine should be denied.
These statements underscore ongoing debates within German politics about balancing diplomatic efforts with military support and the implications for civilians in the region. The discussions reflect broader questions about how Europe should pursue a path toward de-escalation while addressing security concerns and alliance commitments. (Source attribution: Bild am Sonntag)”