“The inviolability of borders is a fundamental principle of international law”

Statement by the Federal Chancellor “The inviolability of borders is a fundamental principle of international law”

Borders must not be moved by force. This principle applies all countries, regardless of whether they are in the East or the West, Federal Chancellor Scholz stressed in a statement to the media. Scholz underlined the clear need for European partners to stick together.

  • Transcript of press conference
  • Wednesday, 8 January 2025
Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz gives a statement to the media.

In his statement the Federal Chancellor made it clear that borders must not be moved by force.

Photo: Federal Government/Florian Gaertner

In the light of recent security policy debates, Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke about Germany’s support for Ukraine, the inviolability of borders under international law, and treaty obligations as members of NATO. Before issuing the statement, the Federal Chancellor spoke to several heads of state and government and the President of the European Council.

Watch the Federal Chancellor's statement here:

03:39

Video Statement des Bundeskanzlers

You can read a transcript here (only German).