Scholz hopes for Ukraine conflict resolution by 2025 “`

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasizes the need for diplomatic solutions to achieve peace between Russia and Ukraine.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz voiced optimism for a resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict by 2025, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding this possibility. He stressed the importance of exploring all avenues for peace, including diplomatic initiatives.

Speaking at a campaign event in Wolfsburg on Friday, Scholz asserted Germany’s commitment to preventing the conflict’s escalation, stating that “every effort is made to ensure that this war… does not become a war between Russia and NATO.” He expressed his opposition to supplying Ukraine with long-range missiles capable of striking deep within Russia, arguing that such actions are “not conducive to peacekeeping efforts from Germany at this time.” While affirming Germany’s substantial military aid to Kyiv, Scholz clarified that he “won’t do everything that anyone suggests,” maintaining an independent approach to military assistance.

However, the chancellor insisted that any peace decisions must not be made unilaterally, emphasizing the need for Ukrainian and European involvement. He highlighted Germany’s position as Ukraine’s largest European and second-largest global supporter.

Earlier this week, Scholz faced criticism from Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock over his opposition to a €3 billion supplementary aid package for Ukraine. Baerbock argued that this stance undermines “taking real responsibility for securing Europe’s peace and freedom” and prioritizes “a national perspective” instead. Scholz advocated for funding the aid through increased borrowing rather than social spending cuts.

This disagreement comes ahead of snap elections scheduled for February, prompted by a confidence vote initiated and subsequently lost by Scholz in December. The coalition government, comprising the Social Democratic Party and the Greens, has long been divided over economic and budgetary policies, including the scale of financial and military aid to Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly expressed frustration with Scholz’s perceived hesitancy in providing more weapons to Ukraine. Russia, meanwhile, has consistently opposed Western arms supplies to Ukraine. In June, President Vladimir Putin labeled these actions a “serious and dangerous step” that exacerbates the conflict.