WadePhul urges transatlantic unit against Putin's aggression

WadePhul urges transatlantic unit against Putin's aggression

Washington, USA - Foreign Minister Johann WadePhul recently called for a clear course in dealing with Russia, which includes a stronger shoulder end with the United States. At a meeting with his US colleague Marco Rubio in Washington, who marked WadePhul's first trip as a new Foreign Minister, the focus was on the ongoing war in Ukraine. WadePhul emphasized that it was crucial to maintain the pressure on Russia in order to promote possible negotiations with President Vladimir Putin. Europe is also planning to further tighten the sanctions against Russia in order to strengthen support for Ukraine, according to WadePhul. FAZ reports that WadePhul and Rubio also talked about the immediate ceasefire and sustainable peace in Ukraine.

The relationships between Russia and Ukraine have been shaped by constant tensions since Russia's attack in February 2022. Since then, Ukraine has fought tirelessly for its sovereignty and territorial integrity, while the first ceasefire negotiations were canceled in spring 2022 and there were no bilateral peace negotiations by February 2025. Effective diplomatic efforts, including UN resolutions, have not changed Russia's attitude. It remains to be seen whether the current talks under the initiative of Donald Trump and Saudi mediation lead to progress, even if they have so far stalled. Wikipedia emphasizes that the EU also demands a stronger role in the negotiations and would like to improve its ability to defend.

NATO and defense spending

A central topic in WadePhul's conversations was NATO and the associated defense spending. NATO has set itself the goal that the member states spend at least 2% of their GDP for defense. WadePhul supports the proposal of NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, 3.5% of GDP for defense plus 1.5% for infrastructure. In view of Trump's threat, the discussion about the financing of the defense budget is an urgent topic in view of Trump's threat with significant punitive tariffs on European imports and the potential need for higher defense spending on the European side.

WADEPHUL would like to learn from Rubio how the US government is on this proposal and whether Trump is willing to support the European position. These affairs are not only important for NATO, but also for the security of Europe. The EU pursues the goal of conflict resolution in its common foreign and security policy and is based on diplomacy to achieve international consensus.

The way to peace and stability

In order to achieve peace in Ukraine, WadePhul appeals to the US government not to build new customs walls, as this would further complicate the already tense situation. A look at the geopolitical landscape shows that the conflicts have to be solved not only on military but also on a diplomatic parquet. Russia continues its attacks on Ukraine despite all efforts to diplomacy. WadePhul emphasizes the necessary cooperation with the USA to guarantee freedom in Europe and to hear the concerns of Ukraine.