Germany has accused Russia of intentionally delaying peace negotiations with Ukraine, suggesting Moscow is attempting to “play for time” while continuing its military campaign. The statement came on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, as diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the ongoing conflict struggle to gain momentum.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock expressed concern over what she called Russia’s lack of seriousness at the negotiation table, warning that Moscow is using talks as a façade to buy time for further military consolidation on Ukrainian territory.
“Russia is not negotiating in good faith,” Baerbock said. “They are playing for time while continuing to bomb Ukrainian cities.”
Peace Negotiations at a Standstill
The latest round of multilateral talks — involving Ukraine, Russia, the European Union, and the United States — was held in Vienna last week. While the sessions focused on de-escalation and the possibility of localized ceasefires, no breakthrough was achieved.
According to German diplomats, Russia has refused to commit to concrete timelines, and its delegation repeatedly delayed discussions on troop withdrawals and territorial status, including occupied areas in Donetsk, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia.
“There is no genuine willingness from Russia to compromise,” said one EU official involved in the negotiations.
Germany Pushes for Firm EU Response
Chancellor Olaf Scholz is reportedly in discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on crafting a unified EU stance, especially in light of growing concerns that Russia is trying to exploit divisions within Europe.
Ukraine’s Position: No Concessions Under Fire
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has echoed Berlin’s assessment, saying Russia’s current posture in talks is “tactical deception.” Kyiv continues to demand a complete withdrawal of Russian forces, the restoration of Ukraine’s 1991 borders, and justice for war crimes before any long-term peace deal is signed.
Zelenskyy’s government has also insisted that Western aid must continue, warning that any slowdown in military or financial support would only embolden Russian advances.
“Peace is impossible when the aggressor keeps firing missiles every night,” Zelenskyy said in a national address.
Military Escalation Continues
On the battlefield, Russian forces have intensified attacks on Kharkiv, Sumy, and parts of southern Ukraine, even as ceasefire discussions unfold. Ukraine’s armed forces claim they have successfully repelled several assaults, but the human toll continues to rise.
Germany, along with the UK and Poland, has announced new deliveries of air defense systems, drones, and ammunition, reinforcing Kyiv’s front lines ahead of the summer campaign.
Outlook: Diplomacy on Fragile Ground
Despite the stalemate, Germany and its allies say they remain committed to diplomatic channels, but warn that talks cannot become a shield for continued aggression.
“We want peace — but not at the price of justice or sovereignty,” Baerbock said.
As Russia digs in militarily and Ukraine holds its ground with Western support, the peace process hangs in the balance — caught between diplomacy and continued war. Whether negotiations will yield results or simply serve as a smokescreen for further bloodshed remains to be seen.
Source; Euronews
