Strengthening support for Ukraine is important element for strengthening Europe’s defense – Pistorius
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said that strengthening military support for Ukraine is an important element for strengthening the European defense policy and ensuring peace in Europe.
He said this at the Europe 2025 conference in Berlin, Censor.NET reports citing Ukrinform.
He named three particularly important points in the restructuring of European defense. According to him, first, all EU countries should significantly increase defense spending. Secondly, it is necessary to create a single certification procedure and improve coordination in defense procurement. And third, support for Ukraine should be continued and strengthened.
"Reliable support for Ukraine is indispensable for peace in Europe," Pistorius said.
He also emphasized that reliable support for Ukraine is critical to ensuring peace in Europe. Pistorius said that, in his opinion, Russian President Vladimir Putin is not interested in a genuine ceasefire or peace, and therefore negotiations can only take place with the participation of Ukraine, which must receive genuine security guarantees.
"To end the Russian war, Ukraine must be fully involved and participate (in the negotiations). Any peace agreement must have truly reliable guarantees for Ukraine. Ukraine's armed forces must remain combat-ready and ready for defense. This is the only way to ensure the deterrent potential of the Russian army, which is constantly evolving," Pistorius said.
The minister also emphasized that the EU, although an important global power, has weaknesses in the defense sector, as it has long been dependent on the United States. He called on European countries to take more responsibility for the security of the continent and act quickly and in a coordinated manner. Pistorius pointed out the need for deregulation and increased interoperability in defense procurement, as well as the importance of increasing funding for security and defense in the next EU budget.
