12/16/2025December 16, 2025Germany’s Pistorius warns against rushing European force for Ukraine
Germany’s Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is urging caution over plans for a European-led multinational force in Ukraine.
His comments follow Monday’s Berlin summit, where European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, proposed a protection force to secure a possible ceasefire.
On Tuesday, Pistorius said Europeans have committed to taking responsibility, but added further developments will largely depend on reactions from the United States and Russia.
“When [Russian President Vladimir] Putin says how he wants to proceed, then we will see what that might consist of in detail,” Pistorius said when asked what contribution Germany’s armed forces could make.
“At this stage, this is about Europeans – quite naturally – committing themselves to sharing responsibility and being involved at the negotiating table in the further course of developments,” Pistorius added.
The plan envisions a Europe-led force backed by the US, operating inside Ukraine.
Washington has yet to respond, though it has, in the past, ruled out sending troops.
Talks on a multinational peacekeeping mission have been ongoing, with France and Britain pushing for concrete steps, while Germany remains more reserved.
Ukraine peace talks in Berlin focus on security guarantees
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