Scholz Confident in Joint Ukraine Strategy with Trump

FRANKFURT (Reuters) – German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed confidence in forming a joint strategy for Ukraine with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump following their phone conversation. In an interview with the Funke group of newspapers, Scholz stated, "I am confident that we can develop a joint strategy for Ukraine. My guiding principle remains that nothing can be decided without giving the Ukrainian people a say."

Scholz mentioned that he had detailed discussions with Trump and noted that his team was in direct communication with Trump's security advisers.

Ukraine has become a significant topic in the upcoming snap election in Germany set for February, which follows the recent collapse of Scholz's three-party coalition in Berlin. Conservative opposition leader Friedrich Merz, who is likely to challenge Scholz, advocated for sending Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine, a move that Scholz has opposed due to concerns it might escalate the conflict.

On Monday, Scholz announced new military aid for Ukraine during a rare visit to Kyiv, reaffirming that Berlin would support Kyiv for as long as necessary in the ongoing war against Russia.