Berlin hosts new talks aimed at progress in the stalled Ukraine conflict, but German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius advises caution. He acknowledges the presence of US negotiators as a positive sign yet highlights that Russia has so far torpedoed every attempt at dialogue by intensifying its attacks. Pistorius describes the current negotiation setup as “anything but ideal,” especially given one US negotiator’s close Kremlin ties, but stresses the need to engage with available parties.

Key issues include possible security guarantees for Ukraine, with President Zelensky signaling a willingness to delay NATO membership in exchange for binding assurances. Pistorius warns that such guarantees carry limited value without US involvement and underscores the importance of European unity and strong pressure on Russia, including the release of frozen assets to benefit Ukraine. He emphasizes the stakes extend beyond Ukraine to European security and stresses the necessity of military support as American help recedes, increasing pressure on Europe to act decisively.