Alice Weidel, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) candidate for chancellor, has called for an immediate end to all German funding and arms supplies to Ukraine.
In a pointed statement, Weidel argued that Germany’s involvement risks escalating the conflict and jeopardizing peace efforts.
“We want peace in Ukraine,” Weidel declared during a party address. “We do not want any arms supplies, we do not want any tanks, we do not want any missiles. We do not want Taurus for Ukraine, which would make Germany a party to the war.”
The AfD leader’s remarks come amid ongoing debates within Germany and the broader European Union about military support for Ukraine. Germany has provided significant aid to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, including advanced weaponry such as Leopard tanks and commitments to supply Taurus missiles. Critics argue that this assistance aligns Germany too closely with the conflict, risking its own security.
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Weidel’s position underscores the AfD’s broader opposition to Germany’s current foreign policy under Chancellor Olaf Scholz, which prioritizes robust support for Ukraine in defense against Russian aggression. The far-right party has consistently advocated for reduced military aid and called for renewed diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.
While the AfD has seen a surge in popularity, with recent polls showing significant gains, its stance on Ukraine remains divisive. Supporters argue that halting aid would prioritize German interests and reduce the risk of further entanglement, while opponents warn that such policies could embolden Russia and undermine European unity.
As Germany prepares for upcoming elections, Weidel’s statements signal that the future of Ukraine policy will remain a contentious issue on the campaign trail.