NATO peace prize in Münster Ukraine pledges and protest

Oct 1

Tagesthemen reports NATO receiving the International Peace of Westphalia Prize at Münster's historic town hall. Merz uses his laudatory speech to maintain Germany's Ukraine-support course despite declining public backing. He argues that support protects German freedom and security, the basis of prosperity, and alleges Moscow-driven online agitation and Russian backing of AfD slogans. These accusations remain his claims. Rupert Wiederwald reports several hundred demonstrators in small groups around the town hall through the day. One critic says arms spending is needed elsewhere; another calls NATO an offensive alliance and fears another war. Inside, Rutte urges calm, continued effort and Ukraine support. The reporter stresses rearmament costs and the need for public explanation.

At his October 1 Westphalia-prize acceptance speech in Münster, Rutte estimates Russian losses at over 40,000 killed or seriously wounded each month, says Putin is intensifying the war and accuses Russia of hybrid attacks across Europe. He cites an alleged explosive-drone attempt at Leipzig Airport and urges allies to remain calm, strengthen defence and support Ukraine even more in response to intimidation. He endorses Merz's continued-support remarks and closes by calling Ukraine's security the allies' security and their support unwavering. The estimates and attack attribution are Rutte's assertions; no new arms delivery or negotiated settlement is announced.