Laschet Advocates for Joint German-French Diplomatic Effort with Russia on Ukraine Peace Plan

Armin Laschet, the head of the Bundestag's Foreign Affairs Committee, has called for Germany and France to initiate a unified diplomatic approach in engaging directly with Russia concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. According to Laschet, a collaborative European effort is essential to present a robust and independent stance in negotiations for a ceasefire.

European nations, in coordination with Ukraine, have developed a peace proposal aimed at achieving a ceasefire in the region affected by Russian military actions. However, the primary channels for conveying these European strategies to Moscow have been facilitated by representatives from the United States. Laschet has raised concerns over this reliance, emphasizing the necessity for Europe to independently communicate its proposals and enhance its political sovereignty on the global stage.

He highlighted that the current process, which involves intermediaries such as US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, has undermined Europe's ability to project its own diplomatic identity. Laschet argued that for Europe to be an influential actor in international affairs, it must take direct responsibility for its diplomatic engagements, rather than depending on external parties to relay its peace initiatives.

French President Emmanuel Macron has recently indicated that reopening direct dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin could benefit both Europe and Ukraine, particularly in efforts to be more actively involved in ceasefire discussions. Putin has reportedly expressed willingness to engage in talks, and France is currently considering the format for such dialogue. Laschet has proposed that any renewed communications with Moscow should be coordinated jointly by Germany and France, ensuring that European interests are represented collectively.

Laschet stressed the importance of embedding all diplomatic efforts within a broader European framework, rather than allowing individual member states to act independently. He suggested that Macron, known for supporting European solutions, is likely to involve other European countries, including Germany, in any potential discussions with Russia. Such a move, Laschet argued, would reinforce the continent's strategic unity and diplomatic strength.

As a strong proponent of German-French cooperation, Laschet has previously been recognized for his contributions to strengthening bilateral ties. He also recently voiced support for the possible appointment of a European Union special envoy for Russia, though he did not specify the precise diplomatic level at which such a position should be established. Laschet criticized the current state of affairs, where communications with Russia are either limited to official declarations from Brussels or are funneled through American intermediaries, deeming this approach inadequate for Europe's diplomatic needs.

Laschet further noted a general lack of readiness within Europe to take on a proactive and sovereign role in international negotiations. He suggested that this mindset must change before decisions can be made about who should lead diplomatic efforts. Laschet dismissed concerns that direct talks between Europe and Russia might be exploited for propaganda purposes by Moscow, emphasizing that persistent and repeated negotiations are a standard part of diplomatic processes.

He also pointed out that American attempts to mediate a peace solution in Ukraine have so far not achieved their intended outcomes, suggesting that greater European involvement in direct dialogue could offer new opportunities for progress. According to Laschet, Europe cannot expect success in its diplomatic objectives unless it actively pursues them through its own initiatives.