Go Tougher on Russia to Ensure Fruitful Outcome on Ukraine Peace Deal, Advocates German Foreign Minister

Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has urged the international community to intensify pressure on Russia and provide firm security guarantees for Ukraine as leaders prepare to gather in Washington for a crucial round of peace talks.

Speaking on Monday, Wadephul stressed that any settlement to the ongoing war must not come at the expense of Ukraine’s sovereignty or its ability to defend itself.

He argued that while dialogue remains important, Moscow must face greater political and economic pressure to agree to a “fair and sustainable peace.”

“The war cannot end with Ukraine left vulnerable,” Wadephul said, warning against compromises that could weaken Kyiv’s defensive capabilities.

He insisted that long-term security assurances—backed by Europe and its allies—must be at the heart of any peace framework.

The remarks come ahead of high-stakes meetings in Washington, where U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy alongside European leaders, including France’s Emmanuel Macron and Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

The talks are seen as a pivotal moment in efforts to end more than two years of full-scale war.

Wadephul’s comments reflect a broader European push to ensure that Ukraine is not sidelined in negotiations. European leaders have been coordinating closely in recent weeks to align their positions and to press for guarantees that Kyiv’s sovereignty and territorial integrity will be fully respected.

Analysts note that the German minister’s intervention signals growing concern in Europe that a rushed peace deal could cement Russian gains and undermine long-term stability.

For Wadephul, only sustained international pressure on Moscow, combined with credible commitments to Ukraine’s security, can lay the foundation for lasting peace.