German Foreign Minister Johann Vaddeful warned that Russia could use a possible ceasefire in Ukraine to accelerate its preparations for an attack on a NATO member state, and called on the alliance to be prepared for such a scenario, DPA reported, quoted by BTA.
Vaddeful specified that he did not want to speculate on the likelihood of this happening, but added: “I can only advise us to prepare for the possibility that this could happen.“
He noted that NATO is expanding its defense structures, and Germany is reorganizing its armed forces, increasing the number of troops and equipment in view of a potential Russian strike. Vaddeful stressed that Europe should not relax even if a ceasefire is reached in Ukraine, as security will depend on Russia for a long time. “Moscow can only be kept at bay by a position of strength, unity within the alliance and capable armed forces“, he pointed out.
“There is no reason to reduce our efforts. Quite the opposite“, the German minister added. “Only a position of strength will provide greater security for us in NATO and for Germany.“
Vaddeful warned that a lasting Russian military success in Ukraine would pose a serious threat to the alliance, and support for Ukraine remains a key security interest for Germany.
He also stressed the need for credible guarantees for Kiev's security from the West, especially from the United States, while ceasefire talks continue. Vaddeful added that Ukraine could be ready for concessions, including territorial ones, only if they were accompanied by reliable security guarantees. "The Europeans will also have to make their contribution," he specified.
The German foreign minister indicated that the structure of this contribution would be discussed after a possible ceasefire and Russia's demonstrated readiness for real peace. "Moscow claims that it is ready for negotiations, but this is not the same as a real readiness for peace. We have not seen anything like this before," Vaddeful said.
Ukraine has been defending itself for almost four years now after Russia's full-scale invasion, he reminded.