German Chancellor Olaf Scholz: Putin’s Ukraine Invasion a Failure, NATO Strengthened
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine has been a resounding failure on all fronts. In an interview with T-online, Scholz stated, "Putin aimed to subjugate the entire country and install a puppet regime, as well as hinder Ukraine’s further integration with the EU and weaken NATO." However, the German leader emphasized that the Russian leader’s plans have not materialized.
Scholz pointed out that since the invasion, NATO has welcomed two new members, Sweden and Finland, and many alliance countries have increased their defense spending to meet the target of two percent of GDP. Additionally, Ukraine, bolstered by Western support, has emerged as a united nation with a strong military, making significant strides towards EU membership.
Looking ahead, Scholz underscored the importance of creating a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine. The Chancellor also revealed his readiness to speak with Putin again, having previously assured the Russian leader that Europe would continue to support Ukraine.
