The Ukrainian ambassador to Germany, Oleksii Makeiev, has dismissed President Putin’s threats following recent Ukrainian attacks targeting Russian industrial sites. Speaking to Politico, Makeiev stated that “the one who should stop is Putin,” adding that “one must not acquiesce to Putin’s threats.” The ambassador clarified that Putin’s recent announcement does not signal a counterattack, but rather a declaration of renewed offensive action, emphasizing that Russia initiated the war back in 2014 and massively expanded it in 2022 with the invasion of the entire Ukrainian territory.
Makeiev sees no sign of a new level of escalation. He stressed that Ukrainians, who have been engaged in fighting for over a decade, are “perfectly aware that further escalation is impossible.” He noted that the population experiences the war daily and is dedicated to defending themselves against Russian attacks.
Regarding the meeting of the so-called Coalition of the Willing in Kyiv, Makeiev also defended the decision of several Western heads of state and government, including CDU Chancellor Friedrich Merz, to participate only digitally. While the Ukraine invited all partners in person, Makeiev explained that Kyiv is currently “full of foreign guests.” He stressed that international attention towards Ukraine remains significant, therefore precluding any discussion of a downturn in German-Ukrainian relations. He acknowledged that there are reasons for any temporary friction, but confirmed that Ukraine is in close consultation with its German partner regarding the matter.
Looking ahead to possible visits to Ukraine by US negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Makeiev confirmed that the invitations have been extended. He expressed hope for movement in the negotiations and for increased pressure being placed on Russia. Finally, he asserted that “we are also showing the whole world who is not ready for these negotiations. And that is Putin and Moscow.”
