Baerbock: Europe now needs leadership and clear answers!

Baerbock: Europe now needs leadership and clear answers!

On March 1, 2025, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock calls for a quick and determined political reaction to the changed security situation in Europe. In her latest statement, she emphasizes the need for fast action at both European and national level. "Germany now has to show leadership," explains Baerbock and at the same time warns of the consequences of the uncertainties that could arise from the recent scandal between US President Donald Trump and the Ukrainian President Wolodymyr Selenskyj. 

Baerbock criticizes the discussion about a new special fund for Ukraine and makes it clear that such a measure is not enough to cover all areas of defense. "A new special fund will not help Ukraine," said Baerbock. Instead, she calls for the reform of the debt brake in order to create more flexibility for safety -relevant expenses. These demands are important because Ukraine urgently needs support, especially in the area of ​​air defense to protect civilians.

reactions to the scandal in the White House

The scandal between Trump and Selenskyj also triggered a strong echo in Berlin. Chancellor Olaf Scholz telephone on Friday evening with CDU boss Friedrich Merz to discuss the consequences of this situation, especially with regard to a planned meeting of European top representatives in London. Scholz wanted to participate in this meeting, and there is agreement that the dramatic situation requires a closer integration of Merz in foreign policy discussions.

The Union also demands that Merz be integrated more on foreign policy appointments, while the Federal Government is in a controversial discussion about how quickly funds should be released for Ukraine. Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck criticized the decision to hold three billion euros back for military support from Ukraine, while Green party members accuse the Chancellor to block the money. In this context, Habeck emphasizes the urgency that Ukraine has to procure air defense to protect human life.

economic and geopolitical perspectives

These developments in German government action are in line with the broad efforts of the European Union to strengthen the common foreign and security policy. In view of the current geopolitical challenges, the EU relies on diplomacy and respect for international rules. The European Council, consisting of the heads of state and government of the member countries, plays a central role in decision-making on external questions.

The EU does not have a standing army, but instead uses ad hoc armor forces that are provided by the member countries. Nevertheless, the Union is able to carry out peace missions worldwide and to provide humanitarian aid. In this context, it is crucial that countries such as Germany and in particular the leaders take a clear position and are committed to international law, as Baerbock emphasizes. "The enemy sits in the Kremlin, not in Kiev or Brussels", she makes it clear.

In this rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, the cooperation within the European Union and the support of Ukraine is considered crucial for stability in Europe.