Main candidates to lead Germany stress importance of supporting Ukraine

Both leading candidates for the German chancellorship seat, Olaf Scholz and Friedrich Merz, emphasize the need for continued military support for Ukraine during a televised debate, as reported by state-run Ukrinform news agency. 

They agreed that the Russo-Ukrainian war must end as soon as possible, but for that to happen, Germany and its allies must remain united in their support.

“It would be good if this war finally came to an end. Hundreds of thousands of people have died due to the destruction Russia has caused in Ukraine, the killings caused by missiles, and everything happening there daily,” current Chancellor Scholz said when debating the leader of the Christian Democratic Union party.

Merz, meanwhile, argued that the war could have ended sooner if aid to Ukraine had been provided without hesitation. The leader of the German opposition also stressed that decisions should be made in cooperation with the United States.

Both candidates agreed on the importance of continuing military aid to Ukraine, but Scholz emphasized the necessity of the U.S. sending a clear signal to Russia about the unwavering support for Ukraine. 

Regarding the supply of long-range weapons, Scholz remained opposed, warning that it could escalate the war with NATO.

Merz acknowledged that Ukraine’s NATO membership is currently impossible but supported increased European cooperation for defense against Russia. He also warned that Russia would continue its aggression in the coming years.

Earlier, Merz had stated that Ukraine must win the war against Russia and restore its territorial integrity. During his visit to Kyiv in December, he pledged to provide Ukraine with Taurus long-range missiles if he wins the elections.

Germany’s snap elections are set for Feb. 23. According to the latest polls, the Christian Democratic Union, holds the lead with 29 percent of support.

The German coalition government collapsed in November after Scholz dismissed Finance Minister Christian Lindner, which deprived the ruling coalition of its majority in the Bundestag legislature.