war against Ukraine
Scholz and Sánchez swear by EU unity against Putin
Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez make a joint press statement in the Chancellery. Photo: Filip Singer/EPA POOL/dpa
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Germany and Spain demonstrate their unity on the war in Ukraine. Addressing the Russian President directly, Scholz renewed his appeal to end the war.
In the face of the Russian war in Ukraine, Germany and Spain have invoked European unity – also in the fight against the consequences of the attack, such as high energy prices.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) also announced on Friday evening before a meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in Berlin: “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.
Addressing the Russian President directly, Scholz renewed his appeal to end the war: “We are calling on President Putin to stop hostilities immediately and withdraw his invading troops from the country.”
War means a turning point
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,” said Scholz. The war in Ukraine is also a turning point for the EU. The community must strengthen its defense capability through investments and, above all, better cooperation, also in close coordination with the USA and NATO. There will also be advice 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”.
Sánchez demanded that the EU summit on March 24th and 25th urgently needed to take measures against rising prices in the energy sector. “These times must strengthen our unity, our unity,” said the Spaniard, according to the official translation. The EU must act together towards Putin, be strong and also find answers to the economic effects of the war.