Scholz opposes deployment of Western weapons on Russia's land.
His goal for Ukraine's situation is to "keep it from erupting into a major conflict," stated Scholz. Providing Germany's weaponry for Ukraine's defense also helps "learn from past mistakes and avoid future escalations, potential war between Russia and NATO."
So far, Germany's weapon deliveries to Ukraine come with the stipulation that they're not used on Russian soil. In light of the worsening military situation, the Green Party's foreign policy expert, Anton Hofreiter, suggested this past weekend that Ukraine should be permitted to use Western weapons against Russian airspace.
"The safety of the Ukrainian populace should be prioritized," Hofreiter told Funke newspaper. "We shouldn't hinder Ukraine from utilizing the supplied weapons to defend themselves against Russian fighter jets in their own airspace." It's within international law for an attacked nation to target military objectives situated within the aggressor's land during self-defense.
CDU defense expert, Roderich Kiesewetter, took it a step further by suggesting that Western nations should assume control of air defense in western Ukraine. "A coalition of willing countries could extend their own air defense in a 70 to 100-kilometer corridor into Ukraine's western territory," Kiesewetter informed the Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung. Serving in capacities like logistics, repairs, medical assistance, and mine clearance in Ukraine is also in line with international law.
Scholz confirmed on Sunday that he would adhere to the same criteria when giving weapons to Ukraine, which is preventing a larger conflict. Germany has already committed or provided 28 billion euros worth of weapons. "You're all aware that Germany is Ukraine's most supportive European country," Scholz noted.
While Germany is also pursuing diplomatic solutions to end the war, Scholz shared that they're currently "focusing on the smaller matters." Their efforts revolve around protecting the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant, ensuring grain exports, and exchanging prisoners. "This is a humble beginning to something bigger," expressed Scholz. "And that's why we're fostering it and attempting to gather as many countries as possible."
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Source: www.stern.de
