Chancellor Scholz dismisses discussions on Germany’s potential role in a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine post-conflict, while Defense Minister Pistorius remains open to the idea, stressing the need for careful consideration of circumstances at the time. He highlighted the importance of the mandate and acceptance by the warring parties for any military involvement. Additionally, Pistorius addressed rising Russian activities in the Baltic Sea, emphasizing the cautious approach of German and Allied forces to avoid escalation amid ongoing tensions.
Should the Bundeswehr Engage in a Peacekeeping Mission After the Ukraine Conflict? While Chancellor Scholz dismisses the topic, Defense Minister Pistorius leaves the door open for such an involvement.
The ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine shows no signs of abating, yet Germany is already exploring potential scenarios for the post-war landscape. A focal point of this discussion is whether soldiers from the Bundeswehr should take part in a peacekeeping operation in Ukraine once hostilities cease.
The air defense systems are designed to safeguard the transport of military assistance to Ukraine.
Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has not ruled out the possibility of participation. “We are preparing and considering various scenarios, but this is being done behind closed doors,” Pistorius stated in an interview with Deutschlandfunk. He emphasized that it is not the appropriate time to publicly discuss these scenarios. The decision regarding military involvement in any peacekeeping force will ultimately hinge on “the conditions that prevail” at that time. He noted that there are still “many uncertainties and hypothetical situations” to consider.
He further explained, “If a ceasefire occurs and there are intentions to implement peacekeeping measures through military means, the specifics of the mandate, its scope, and the acceptance by the warring parties will be crucial.”
Additionally, the Bundeswehr has placed an order for artillery ammunition valued at approximately 8.5 billion euros from Rheinmetall.
Scholz Deems the Discussion Unfitting
Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) deemed the conversation surrounding Germany’s potential involvement in a peacekeeping initiative for Ukraine as “unfitting” during a recent session in the Bundestag. His remarks followed comments from Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock (Greens), which were interpreted to suggest that she might support Germany’s role in such a force.
‘Consider All Options, But Keep Details Under Wraps’
“Baerbock spoke in broad terms,” remarked Pistorius regarding her comments. He noted that the Chancellor rightly distinguished between two different scenarios: “One pertains to deploying ground troops now—Germany firmly excludes that. The other concerns what happens once the fighting concludes.” He added, “We will need to discuss this as the situation develops, but not without involving those directly affected.” It’s important to “consider all options,” but that does not mean revealing every scenario.
Russian Activities in the Baltic Sea
Pistorius also addressed the growing presence of Russian vessels in the Baltic Sea, highlighting its strategic significance for nations like Russia and China, particularly concerning sanctions evasion. He noted that Russia’s provocative actions echo tactics from the Cold War era. “We’ve witnessed multiple incidents in the Baltic Sea where warning shots are fired into the air or even into the water,” he said. He drew parallels to aerial incidents where unmarked Russian jets have tested NATO’s reactions over the Baltics.
Following the discovery of damaged cables in the Baltic Sea, Swedish authorities are investigating potential sabotage.
Pistorius refrained from commenting on a recent incident involving a Bundeswehr helicopter and a Russian ship, which reportedly fired signal ammunition—usually reserved for emergencies. Foreign Minister Baerbock highlighted that numerous vessels in the Baltic are suspected of attempting to circumvent sanctions linked to the ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine.
Regarding the potential for escalation, Pistorius assured that both the German Navy and Allied forces are acting with caution: “They monitor the incidents, report them, and respond with de-escalating measures, avoiding any provocative actions, which is the last thing we need.”