Scholz cautiously optimistic ahead of peace summit in Switzerland
Published: Tuesday, Jun 11th 2024, 14:50
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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has expressed cautious optimism about the chances of success of the Swiss peace conference for Ukraine on June 15 and 16.
"There we will discuss principles for a just and lasting peace," said the head of government on Tuesday at a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi at the international reconstruction conference for Ukraine in Berlin.
"These are not yet negotiations about an end to the war, because for that (Russian President Vladimir) Putin would have to show that he is prepared to end his brutal campaign and withdraw troops," added Scholz. However, he added: "But perhaps a way can be found to start a process in which Russia will one day also have a seat at the table." However, this would be decided by Ukraine alone. We remain firmly on the side of the Ukrainians.
The Federal Chancellor called the peace conference very important because many specific issues relating to the war would be discussed there, including from a humanitarian perspective. "But that is then the basis for a further step. And that is why this is the plant that we are now watering, where we hope that as many people as possible will help to ensure that it becomes a well-developing garden that then creates the opportunity for peaceful development." Russia must make a contribution to peaceful development, Scholz demanded - it must end the war and withdraw its troops. "That is not on the horizon, but that is what it must be about," said Scholz.
©Keystone/SDA
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