Baerbock Accuses Putin of Stalling Peace Talks in Ukraine

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of “playing for time” in negotiations over the war in Ukraine as she arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday. Baerbock stated, “Ukraine is ready for an immediate ceasefire. It is Putin who is playing for time, does not want peace and is continuing his war of aggression, which is a violation of international law.”

She further added, “He is feigning a willingness to negotiate, but not deviating an inch from his goals,” during her ninth visit to Ukraine since the start of the war.

On March 11, Ukraine and the United States agreed on a plan for a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, but Putin rejected the US proposal and escalated his rhetoric, insisting Moscow aimed to install new leadership in Ukraine.

Baerbock was visiting Kyiv for the first time since the re-election of US President Donald Trump, whose outreach to Russia over European heads has caused concern about the future of NATO and prompted Europe to focus on strengthening its own defense capabilities while increasing support for Ukraine.

In response to the shifting dynamics, Germany approved three billion euros ($3.25 billion) in new military aid for Ukraine in March, following the adoption of a significant new spending package that eased its traditionally strict debt rules.

“In view of the deadlock between the United States and Russia, it is absolutely vital that we Europeans show that we stand by Ukraine’s side… and support it now more than ever,” Baerbock emphasized.

Meanwhile, commemorations were held on Monday in Ukraine’s Bucha, where Russia’s army is accused of murdering hundreds of civilians three years ago.