Kyiv, Ukraine — Russian President Vladimir Putin is unrelenting in his pursuit of Ukraine’s capitulation, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul declared during an unannounced visit to Kyiv on Monday, June 30, 2025. As Russian bombardments intensify, Wadephul’s stark warning underscores the deepening crisis in Ukraine, now in its fourth year of war. “Putin is not ceding on any of his maximalist demands — he doesn’t want negotiations, he wants a capitulation,” Wadephul said, standing alongside Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha in a city battered by recent Russian strikes. Source: Pardafas
The German minister’s visit comes at a critical juncture. Russia launched its largest combined aerial attack on Ukraine over the weekend, further dimming hopes for a ceasefire. Ukrainian officials reported widespread destruction, including a devastating rocket attack on June 17 that killed 28 people and injured over 130 in Kyiv. A German embassy employee was among those affected, with her apartment damaged by the blast wave. Wadephul and Sybiha laid roses at the site of the destroyed residential building, a poignant symbol of the war’s toll on civilians. Source: Yahoo News
A Defiant Stand for Ukraine’s Freedom
“Ukraine’s freedom and liberty is the most important task of our foreign and security policy,” Wadephul emphasized in a statement released by the German Foreign Ministry. His words carry weight as Germany remains Ukraine’s second-largest military backer after the United States, providing advanced air defense systems, weapons, and humanitarian aid. Yet, with uncertainties surrounding future U.S. support, Europe faces mounting pressure to fill the gap. Wadephul’s visit, accompanied by representatives from Germany’s defense industry, signals Berlin’s commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s ability to defend itself. Source: Daily Times
In a powerful statement, Wadephul framed the conflict as a defining moment for Europe: “Ukraine will determine whether Europe remains a place where freedom and human dignity prevail — or becomes a continent where violence redraws borders.” He accused Putin of seeking “conquest and subjugation at any cost,” even if it means sacrificing countless lives. The emotional weight of his words resonated with Ukrainians, who have endured relentless attacks on their cities, homes, and way of life. Source: The Straits Times
Putin’s Rejection of Peace Talks
Wadephul’s remarks align with sentiments expressed by Ukrainian officials and international observers. Putin’s “alleged willingness to negotiate is just a facade,” the German minister said, echoing the frustration of those who have watched peace talks falter repeatedly. On June 27, Putin himself stated that Russia and Ukraine’s demands for peace were “absolutely contradictory,” further dimming prospects for diplomacy. Source: AFP on X
For example, in a speech at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum on June 20, Putin reiterated his long-standing demands for Ukrainian neutrality, demilitarization, and recognition of Russian territorial claims. These conditions, widely seen as tantamount to surrender, have been rejected by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who insists on the restoration of Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders. “All of Ukraine is ours,” Putin declared, a statement that sent chills through the international community. Source: Kyiv Independent on X
The human cost of this stalemate is staggering. Families have been torn apart, cities reduced to rubble, and millions displaced. In Kyiv, the scars of war are visible everywhere — from shattered buildings to the weary faces of residents who live under the constant threat of air raids. Wadephul’s visit to the site of the June 17 attack was a somber reminder of the war’s brutality. “This is not just about Ukraine,” he said. “It’s about the future of Europe and the principles we hold dear.”
Germany’s Role in Supporting Ukraine
Germany has been a steadfast ally to Ukraine, supplying critical military equipment such as Leopard tanks and IRIS-T air defense systems. However, Berlin has hesitated to provide Taurus long-range missiles, citing fears of escalating the conflict and drawing NATO into direct confrontation with Russia. Instead, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has pledged to support Ukraine in developing its own long-range missile systems, free from Western-imposed restrictions. Source: Times of India
Wadephul’s delegation included defense industry leaders, who are exploring joint ventures to help Ukraine produce its own weapons. “We want to establish new joint ventures so that Ukraine can produce more for its own defense more quickly, because your needs are enormous,” he said. This move could prove transformative, enabling Ukraine to reduce its reliance on foreign aid and strengthen its resilience against Russian aggression. Source: The Straits Times
A Global Call to Action
The international community faces a moral and strategic imperative to stand with Ukraine. Wadephul’s visit underscores Germany’s resolve, but it also highlights the broader challenge: sustaining global support in the face of war fatigue and political uncertainties. For instance, recent doubts about U.S. commitment have spurred European nations to step up. France, Poland, and the Baltic states have also increased their aid to Ukraine, recognizing that the outcome of this war will shape the geopolitical landscape for decades.
In Ukraine, the resilience of ordinary citizens is nothing short of inspiring. From volunteers delivering aid to soldiers defending the front lines, Ukrainians have shown unwavering determination. Yet, they cannot fight alone. Wadephul’s pledge of continued support — including modern air defense systems, humanitarian aid, and economic assistance — is a lifeline for a nation under siege.
As the war grinds on, the stakes could not be higher. Putin’s refusal to negotiate in good faith threatens not only Ukraine but the stability of Europe and beyond. The international community must rally behind Ukraine, not just with words but with tangible action. Wadephul’s visit is a step in that direction, but it is only one part of a much larger effort needed to counter Russia’s aggression.
Looking Ahead
As Wadephul met with President Zelenskyy and other Ukrainian officials, the message was clear: Ukraine will not surrender. The war has united the Ukrainian people in a way that Putin likely did not anticipate, forging a nation determined to defend its sovereignty. For Germany and its allies, the challenge is to match that resolve with sustained support.
The world is watching. Will Europe and its partners rise to the occasion, or will Putin’s vision of conquest prevail? The answer lies in the actions taken now — in the weapons delivered, the aid provided, and the unity shown in the face of tyranny. For Ukraine, every day is a fight for survival. For the rest of us, it is a fight for the values that define a free and just world.
По материалам: http://www.planet-today.com/2025/06/russias-putin-demands-ukraines.html