Germany's foreign minister: 'European unity is decisive'
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has emphasized that European unity is more critical than ever, warning that the continent’s security depends on strong cooperation among allies, continued support for Ukraine, and unwavering commitment to NATO.
In an interview, Wadephul said trans-Atlantic relations have become more complicated than in the past, but stressed that the United States remains a vital partner for Europe. Despite shifting global dynamics, he said the most important factor for Europe’s future is maintaining internal unity and collective strength.
Wadephul made clear that Germany’s support for Ukraine remains a top priority. He stated that helping Ukraine defend itself against Russia is essential for European security. According to the minister, Russia’s invasion has completely changed Europe’s strategic outlook and destroyed any remaining illusions about easy diplomatic understanding with Moscow.
Delivering a strong message on NATO’s defense commitments, Wadephul said Germany would respond immediately if any NATO territory came under attack. He stated that German soldiers would defend every centimeter of alliance territory without hesitation, underlining Berlin’s firm stance against potential Russian aggression.
The foreign minister also highlighted Poland’s growing strategic importance. He praised close German-Polish cooperation and said Poland plays a crucial role in supporting Ukraine. According to Wadephul, major European coordination efforts regarding Ukraine cannot succeed without Polish involvement, making Warsaw an indispensable partner in regional security.
Speaking about relations with Poland, Wadephul acknowledged Germany’s historical responsibility for crimes committed during World War II. He said Germany carries immense guilt over its actions during the occupation and argued that surviving victims of those crimes should receive compensation.
Despite occasional anti-German sentiment in Poland, Wadephul expressed hope for stronger ties and a more stable relationship. He said his vision for future German-Polish relations is simple: normality, stability, and mutual trust as both countries work together to shape Europe’s future.
Ending on a lighter note, Wadephul shared a personal remark about Poland, saying he enjoys visiting the country and even joked that life often runs more smoothly there. He added that, in his opinion, food in Poland usually tastes better than in Germany.