In the Berlin traffic light coalition, the pressure is growing on the federal government to move towards an energy embargo and the delivery of heavy weapons. The chairman of the European Committee, Anton Hofreiter (52, Greens), sees the SPD Prime Minister Olaf Scholz (63) as primarily responsible.
At “RTL direct” Hofreiter said: “The problem is in the Chancellery and Mr. Scholz speaks of a turning point. But he doesn’t implement them sufficiently, and that requires a lot more leadership.”
Especially when you talk to other European parliamentarians, the question is asked everywhere where Germany actually is, the politician continued. “It’s not just a problem for the people of Ukraine, it’s the main problem. But that is also a problem for us. We are currently losing massive respect with all our neighbors.”
In an interview with the TV station Phoenix, Hofreiter specified: “The chancellor must show leadership, must say, we are now going it alone and ensure that there is a coal and oil embargo. In my view, an energy embargo is even necessary. And it is important that we offer Ukraine the prospect of accession.”
Is heavily criticized by Hofreiter: Chancellor Olaf ScholzPhoto: IMAGO/Jens Schicke
Hofreiter also demanded that Germany should deliver heavy weapons to Ukraine as quickly as possible. “The understanding in the cabinet that we are not supplying heavy weapons must be changed. Ukraine is desperately fighting a war of annihilation. A democracy is defending itself against a criminally acting dictatorship, serious war crimes are committed by the Russian invaders every day – and it is our duty to support Ukraine,” argued Hofreiter on TV station Phoenix.
Kyiv needs all the military support that Western countries can provide, including Western-type weapons. “You need this material now so that you can train your soldiers on it in the next few weeks,” said the Green politician.