Dr. Weber expressed doubts about an immediate turning point, but emphasized that increased pressure from the US had at least created momentum. Against the backdrop of adjustments to the peace plan, the question now is whether Russia will support the compromises worked out over the past week.
Contrary to the opinion of many experts, Dr. Weber pointed out that Russia had made concessions on several important points for the first time, even if these concessions were not sufficient from a European perspective. The central challenge remains whether, in view of the real political circumstances, such a compromise peace should be accepted in order to prevent the ongoing war and human suffering. Security guarantees would have to be acceptable to Russia, which, from Moscow's point of view, meant in particular the exclusion of all NATO troops from Ukraine. Instead, armed forces from more neutral states would be conceivable.
Europe itself was playing only a minor role in the current negotiation process, as the decisive talks were being conducted between the US and Russia. Debates continue within Europe, with the majority of countries supporting Ukraine. French President Macron is striving for a leading role, but cannot increase his global political weight through media presentation alone. Chancellor Merz, on the other hand, is trying to keep Germany in the leading group, but is more cautious about his own initiatives.