Scholz names condition for inviting Russia to peace talks

Russia must realize the need to withdraw its troops from the territory of Ukraine for conditions to be created for inviting Moscow to peace talks.

This was stated by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who answered Ukrinform correspondent’s questions at a joint press conference with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine.

He recalled that this week is that of "important summits, in the center of which is Ukraine." And the first peace summit, the peace conference in Switzerland is very important, he believes. After several meetings already held, this marks the next step, although not the last, which should lay the foundations for the next one that will lead to "peaceful developments".

"Russia, of course, must make its contribution to these peaceful developments, namely, to end the war and withdraw their troops," the German chancellor said.

At the same time, he reaffirmed Germany’s continued support to Ukraine that includes military aid, vowing to remain the largest arms donor for Ukraine in Europe.

However, he noted that there is no news on the issue of providing German long-range missiles. As for the issues of foreign instructors training Ukrainian recruits on Ukrainian soil, Germany does not support the idea, the chancellor clarified.

Scholz also noted that Ukraine is fighting the aggressor and at the same time building its European future. Reconstruction will be a huge task that will require huge funds, and the effort will not work without private money.

"Our goal is clear: Ukraine must preserve its independence and territorial integrity," Scholz said.

The two leaders spoke on the sidelines of the Ukraine Recovery Conference that is being held in the German capital, Berlin, on June 11-12.