German Foreign Minister Accuses Russian President of 'Playing for Time'
During a visit to Kiev on April 1, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of "buying time" in negotiations on the war in Ukraine.
"Ukraine is ready for an immediate ceasefire. It is Mr. Putin who is 'playing for time', does not want peace and continues an aggressive war in violation of international law," Foreign Minister Baerbock said in a statement released by the German Foreign Ministry.
Earlier, on March 11, Ukraine - a country facing difficulties on the front line - and the US agreed on a 30-day ceasefire plan with Russia. However, President Putin rejected the US proposal and increased the rhetoric about Moscow wanting to change the Ukrainian leadership.
This is Ms. Baerbock’s first visit to Kiev since Donald Trump’s re-election as US President. Mr. Trump has upended US-European relations by bypassing European countries to reach out directly to Russia to end the conflict. This policy shift has raised concerns about the future of the NATO alliance and prompted Europe to focus on strengthening its defense capabilities and increasing support for Ukraine.
In March, Germany approved 3 billion euros ($3.25 billion) in new military aid to Ukraine after passing a major spending package that eased previously strict rules on public debt.
"Given the stalemate between the United States and Russia, it is absolutely necessary that we, as Europeans, show that we stand with Ukraine... and support Ukraine more than ever," Foreign Minister Baerbock said.
