Pistorius urges readiness And continued Ukraine aid

Jun 5, 2024

Boris Pistorius tells the Bundestag that Russia's invasion threatens European security and that a Russian victory would cost more than continued support for Ukraine. Recalling his Odesa visit, he describes civilian destruction, an air alert and wounded soldiers, and calls for continued air defence and other aid. He says Germany must be ready for war by 2029 so deterrence prevents a conflict, identifying personnel, equipment and funding as essential. He promises a new military-service proposal with some obligations, and sustained investment in weapons, ammunition and support equipment. This is his security assessment and policy appeal, not a declaration of war or adoption of a service law.

Pistorius calls for continued German support for Ukraine, especially air defence, and says a Russian victory would ultimately cost more than continued aid. Recalling destruction and wounded soldiers in Odesa, he argues that collapsed support would have disastrous consequences. Challenged about peace negotiations, he assigns responsibility to Putin and says Ukraine and Russia determine when negotiations occur. On 2025 aid funding he says needs are known but negotiations cannot be pre-empted.