Germany Urges Europe to ‘Grow Up’ in Support for Ukraine While Avoiding ‘Escalation Trap’

Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul urged Europe to “grow up” and strengthen support for Ukraine after US President Donald Trump signalled increased backing for Kyiv. Speaking on German radio, Wadephul said Europeans must act more sovereignly, deliver on commitments, and explore further financial and military options for Ukraine. He noted that not all European states have fulfilled promises made to Kyiv.
Trump’s remarks on Truth Social that Ukraine could “take back all of its territory from Russia” marked a shift from his earlier stance, though it remains unclear whether his words will translate into action. Wadephul said the change was positive, recognising Trump’s realisation that direct diplomacy with Russia had failed. At the UN General Assembly, Trump suggested NATO should shoot down Russian aircraft breaching alliance airspace, a proposal Germany’s Defence Minister Boris Pistorius cautioned against. Pistorius stressed avoiding an “escalation trap” and maintaining “level-headedness” to safeguard European peace, noting provocations like recent Russian airspace violations in Estonia.
Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov rejected Trump’s “paper tiger” comment, insisting Russia would continue its military operation in Ukraine, describing it as essential for the nation’s future. NATO allies, meanwhile, have increased defence spending and stepped up weapons deliveries to Ukraine, including air defence systems. The EU is discussing plans to use frozen Russian assets for aid, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen promising further sanctions and reduced Russian energy imports.