Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz travelled to London at the invitation of the British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for consultations on the issue of support for Ukraine among European heads of state and government. “Ukraine is the country that has been attacked – it is the victim of Russian aggression,” the Federal Chancellor said. “And of course this means that we must and intent to take action.”

Key points from the Federal Chancellor’s speech:

• Aid for Ukraine: The Federal Chancellor said that it was clear that financial and military support for the country had to continue, adding that it had also been discussed in London how progress could be made. “Peace in Ukraine is achieved when Russia ends the war.”
• Ukraine’s ability to defend itself: Ukraine’s ability to defend itself with a strong army and an effective security architecture had to be at the core of any future peace order, Scholz said. 
• European security: All European states had committed themselves to doing more to ensure their own security, the Federal Chancellor stated. “We are transatlantic allies in NATO. This is key to security in the USA, Canada and Europe.” Scholz went on to say that the Alliance had been reinforced in recent years by accepting new members and increasing defence spending. “We will continue to do so in future.”

You can read a transcript of the press conference here (in German)