More confident, more resilient
Scholz sees war “a turning point for the EU”
03/18/2022, 10:00 p.m
The heads of state and government of the EU will meet next week. Of course, it’s also about the war in Ukraine – Chancellor Scholz sees it as a “turning point” for the Union. This must strengthen its defense capability through investments and better cooperation.
According to Chancellor Olaf Scholz, the Russian attack on Ukraine must also change the EU. “The war in Ukraine also means a turning point for the EU,” said the SPD politician before a meeting with Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in Berlin. At the EU summit next week, discussions will be held on how the EU can become more sovereign and resilient “to better protect our citizens in Europe,” Scholz said. The community must strengthen its defense capability through investments and, above all, better cooperation, also in close coordination with the USA and NATO.
Along with Sanchez, the chancellor called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to stop fighting immediately and “withdraw the invading troops from the country.” Sanchez said that Putin was the sole author of the war. Scholz had already called Putin in the morning and called for a ceasefire.
With a view to the EU summit next Thursday and Friday, Scholz said that the EU must strengthen its defense capabilities and make decisions in the energy sector. Discussions will be held on how the EU can best deal with the “difficulty” of high energy prices for citizens and companies. Together they will “urge that we as the European Union become more independent in energy issues”.
Sanchez demanded that the Europeans have to react together to the sharp increase in energy prices. Spain and Portugal want to cap prices in their countries. “It is very important for Spain that the EU summit takes urgent action.” The coverage and financing from EU pots is viewed critically by other EU states.
Scholz also announced: “As before, we will continue to support Ukraine, which is so courageous in opposing the aggressor.” That also means “that we take care of the humanitarian needs of the people there” and the war refugees, many of whom have already been admitted to the European Union.