Germany’s Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil has voiced strong support for a diplomatic initiative led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz to include European perspectives in upcoming US-led negotiations between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding Ukraine.
Speaking to the “Rheinische Post”, Klingbeil stated, “It is positive that the Chancellor is clearly demonstrating at this crucial time that the German government is doing everything possible to best support Ukraine and incorporate European interests into the discussions”. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that no decisions are made without the participation and consideration of both Ukraine and Europe.
“With the digital summit today, the Chancellor is fostering a unified European position at an important juncture. This sends a significant signal. We stand with Ukraine” Klingbeil added.
Chancellor Merz is scheduled to hold video conferences with other European leaders and then with President Trump later today. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will participate in the discussions from the Chancellery. The meeting precedes a planned face-to-face encounter between Presidents Trump and Putin in Alaska on Friday.
