In a recent interview with POLITICO’s Berlin Playbook podcast, Chancellor Scholz expressed optimism regarding ongoing U.S. support for Ukraine. He highlighted discussions he and his advisors have had with former President Trump and his team, suggesting that continued backing for Ukraine is a reasonable expectation, even as tensions with Russia escalate.

Shortly after, Trump announced his intentions to initiate immediate talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth clarified that Ukraine’s chances of joining NATO are slim, asserting that Europe should bear the primary responsibility for providing both lethal and nonlethal assistance to Ukraine.

During a NATO meeting in Brussels, Hegseth also cautioned that Ukraine is unlikely to reclaim all territories occupied by Russia, emphasizing that no U.S. troops would partake in any peacekeeping efforts.

The German government has yet to release a statement addressing these recent developments.

When asked about the possibility of Germany contributing troops to a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, Scholz stressed that any viable solution would necessitate U.S. involvement. “It is crucial that any resolution includes the U.S. as a partner, as maintaining transatlantic unity is essential,” he remarked when discussing Germany’s potential role in future peacekeeping initiatives.