Germany's Wadephul unsure if Putin is prepared to discuss peace

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for consistently inventing reasons to avoid engaging in peace negotiations with Ukraine. Wadephul expressed doubt that US Special Envoy Steve Witkoffs upcoming visit to Moscow will produce meaningful outcomes.

"Putin repeatedly comes up with new pretexts to evade discussions," Wadephul said while meeting his Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdel-Atty in Berlin on Tuesday. "I remain uncertain whether he genuinely intends to pursue peace talks."

Witkoff is scheduled to hold discussions with Putin in Moscow later Tuesday, focusing on efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. Wadephul emphasized that he and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio share the view that a ceasefire is urgently needed.

During a phone call on Monday, they also stressed that a lasting end to the war must ensure enduring peace and security for both Ukraine and Europe as a whole, Wadephul noted.

The German minister expressed appreciation for the Trump administrations role in pushing for a resolution to the conflict, describing Witkoffs Moscow talks as part of those ongoing initiatives. He added that the very fact that negotiations are taking place suggests that Russia may still be exploring whether a settlement is feasible.

"We will continue to intensify our support for Ukraine," Wadephul concluded.

Author: Sophia Brooks