German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock Calls for Further Support for Ukraine
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has called for further support for Ukraine in its defensive war against Russia. She made this statement on Thursday, July 4, during her speech to members of the Bundestag.
According to the head of the German Foreign Ministry, Russia remains «the biggest threat to security and freedom in Europe in the foreseeable future.» Therefore, Western countries should continue to support Ukraine.
Protecting Freedom and Democracy
Baerbock emphasized the need to protect freedom and democracy. «We did not choose this,» she added, as quoted by Reuters. She also stressed that Germany has a special responsibility in this matter and rebuilding trust through a policy towards Russia is a priority.
Increasing Defense Spending
The minister called on the German parliament to increase defense spending in line with NATO’s requirement to spend at least two percent of GDP on defense. She emphasized that supporting Ukraine is not a charitable act, but serves the security of Germany and the preservation of freedom in Europe.
Focus on Putin’s Threat
According to Baerbock, Russian President Vladimir Putin also poses a threat to peace and freedom in Europe. Germany must focus its defense policy on this and fulfill its obligations to NATO in order to remain a transatlantic ally, she was quoted as saying by AFP.
