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German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul believes an opportunity to launch negotiations aimed at ending Russia’s war against Ukraine could emerge as early as this summer.
Speaking in an interview with RTL media group on June 16, Wadephul said there are indications that conditions for diplomatic engagement may be developing, UATV English reports.
“Right now, there is a chance, I believe, to begin negotiations already this summer,” the German foreign minister said.
Wadephul did not rule out the possibility that Russian President Vladimir Putin may be more open to dialogue than before.
“Perhaps he is now at a stage where he is seriously thinking about it,” the minister said.
According to Wadephul, the current battlefield situation has not provided either side with a decisive military advantage. He also pointed to recent remarks by Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, who said neither Russia nor Ukraine can achieve victory through military means.
“That is an interesting statement from a very close ally of Putin,” Wadephul noted.
The German foreign minister stressed that Ukraine has consistently demonstrated its readiness for negotiations.
“Ukraine has been ready for talks all along,” he said, adding that “Vladimir Putin now has to decide whether he wants to negotiate or continue shooting.”
Wadephul said Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, together with other European partners, have already conveyed that message to Moscow.
“We are also ready for negotiations,” he stated.
At the same time, the minister emphasized that support for Ukraine will continue and that sanctions remain a significant source of pressure on the Russian economy.
“In a sober assessment, he should come to the conclusion that now is a good moment for negotiations,” Wadephul said, referring to Putin.
Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine supports organizing peace talks with Russia before the start of winter and is prepared to consider a neutral venue for such negotiations.
