Scholz outlines four steps for Ukraine's allies to expedite war resolution
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (Getty Images)
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has outlined what Western countries can do to end Russia's war against Ukraine as soon as possible. His proposal consists of four steps, according to The Wall Street Journal.
First, allies must continue to provide support. On February 1, the EU Council decided to provide Ukraine with an additional $54 billion in financial assistance over the next four years. This should be complemented by additional military assistance.
The Chancellor urged his European colleagues to make the necessary budgetary decisions.
He emphasizes that Germany like the United States and other countries is ready to provide Kyiv with long-term security commitments and arrangements so that Ukraine can deter and defend itself against future Russian attacks. As a highly developed industrialized country and future EU member, Ukraine would be able to maintain a well-equipped, modern army if it succeeds in repelling Russian aggression. This prospect increases the security of all of us.
Second, the West must continue to move strategically on both sides of the Atlantic.
He notes that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is trying to undermine Ukraine and its allies' unity and turn people against supporting Ukraine.
According to Scholz, other countries around the world are watching closely to see if these differences can be used to their advantage and if disinformation campaigns can be launched,
The Chancellor says Europe has to prove them wrong by convincing citizens on both sides of the Atlantic that a Russian victory would make the world a much more dangerous place. It would also strain our budgets and jeopardize the freedom and prosperity of all of us.
He adds that the West will resist any attempts to drag NATO into a war with Russia.
Third, the West does not see itself in a state of war with Russia and does not seek confrontation with it. It will resist any attempts to involve the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine.
Fourth, he says, NATO's collective deterrence and defense must be reliable.
Scholz emphasizes that the sooner Putin realizes that we are in this for the long haul, the sooner the war in Ukraine will end. The only way the West can contribute to a lasting peace is through our support, unity, and determination. The West must support Ukraine for as long as it takes.
Germany's assistance to Ukraine
Germany has been one of Ukraine's main allies since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion.
On January 31, Germany handed Ukraine a new military aid package. It included air defense missiles, all-terrain vehicles, and armored personnel carriers.
In addition, German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach assured Ukraine of further assistance and cooperation in the healthcare sector.
Scholz also stated that Ukraine may soon face a serious shortage of weapons and ammunition.
