German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul rejected speculations about Ukraine possibly making territorial concessions to achieve peace with Russia, affirming that the West stands united behind Ukraine. This came after consultations on Monday with his European Union counterparts. Wadephul stated on the platform “X” on Monday evening: “Force must not change the borders of countries.” He added that Germany supports US President Donald Trump’s goal of ending the Russian war against Ukraine, emphasizing that the outcome must be “a just and lasting peace.” Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to negotiate next Friday in Alaska on a potential peace plan to end the nearly three-and-a-half-year-long war in Ukraine. Trump had mentioned on Monday the possibility of land swaps between Ukraine and Russia, but Kyiv firmly rejects any territorial concessions.

Regarding the potential peace plan, Wadephul told German public television (ZDF) that Ukraine understands negotiations will be difficult, adding: “It may also have to expect to make concessions, but that will be decided later. Today, the matter is about creating fair conditions for these negotiations, which should start from the current front lines.” He explained that Europe has a clear vision “which largely aligns” with Ukraine’s vision, stressing that it concerns Europe’s security and that “decisions will not be made behind Europeans’ backs.” Wadephul concluded by saying the question is whether Putin is seriously ready to negotiate, adding: “That will become clear on Friday, and he must realize that the West stands united behind Ukraine.”