Germany has emerged as a potential host nation for a high-stakes summit involving Ukraine, Russia and the United States, according to recent statements from German political figures. Ralf Stegner, a foreign policy spokesperson for the Social Democratic Party (SPD), indicated that Germany should be open to facilitating such a meeting if requested by the participating parties and if it could contribute to a resolution. He emphasized Germany’s position as the largest nation within the European Union and its responsibility to champion diplomatic efforts towards de-escalation and a lasting peace. However, Stegner cautioned against publicly pushing the proposal, citing the need for discreet negotiations.
The discussion comes amidst reports that US President Donald Trump is seeking a direct meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Identifying a neutral location for such talks is considered a crucial step. While Germany firmly supports Ukraine, the possibility of hosting the summit is complicated by an international arrest warrant issued for Putin by the International Criminal Court – a warrant that German authorities would be legally obligated to execute should he enter the country.
Sahra Wagenknecht, leader of the BSW party, suggested Brazil as an alternative location, arguing that Germany’s current foreign policy stance – which she characterized as strongly aligned with Ukraine – would preclude it from serving as an effective mediator. She also voiced opposition to Germany providing security guarantees to Ukraine, warning that the deployment of German troops would effectively make the country a party to the conflict.
Hubertus Heil, another SPD politician, offered praise for Chancellor Merz’s diplomatic efforts and advocated for European security guarantees for Ukraine. He highlighted the delicate balance of representing European values while simultaneously engaging with the United States to secure effective security assurances. Heil acknowledged the significant challenges ahead in achieving a sustainable and secure peace for Europe, stressing the need for reliable guarantees that uphold Ukraine’s sovereignty and contain Russian expansionism.
