'Can't see Putin changing his mind': Germany ready to back security guarantees for Ukraine after war

German Finance Minister and Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil - File Photo

German Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil on Monday said Berlin is prepared to take part in providing security guarantees for Ukraine once its war with Russia comes to an end.

During his first official visit to Kyiv, Klingbeil said Germany would work with European partners to build a security framework that prevents any renewed aggression from Moscow. He stressed that Ukraine must be involved in shaping any such agreement.

“What’s important is that, in the end, there are security guarantees that ensure Ukraine is no longer attacked and that Putin no longer dares to attack Ukraine," Klingbeil said.

The vice chancellor, who also serves as finance minister, noted that talks on security guarantees remain in the early stages, but emphasized Berlin’s willingness to “assume responsibility.” He added that such discussions should not take place “over the heads of Ukrainians” and should begin only once a ceasefire is in place.

“In close coordination with (Chancellor Friedrich Merz), I am seeking to exchange ideas on how Germany can best support Ukraine in a possible peace process," Klingbeil said in a statement.

He also highlighted the importance of strengthening the Ukrainian military and boosting domestic arms production to ensure Kyiv’s long-term security.

Security guarantees are widely seen as a central component of any lasting peace, though the concept remains complex and without a defined roadmap. Klingbeil said the outcome depends largely on Moscow’s stance.

“The ball is now in Vladimir Putin’s court. I believe that we still have a very long way to go, because I cannot yet see Vladimir Putin changing his mind, suddenly relenting, suddenly wanting to hold real, serious, sustainable peace talks," he said.

The remarks came a day after Ukraine marked its Independence Day, with President Volodymyr Zelensky declaring that the presence of foreign troops after the war would be “important” for the country’s security.

Russia, however, has firmly rejected the idea of Western forces being stationed in Ukraine.

Prospects for peace dimmed further when the Kremlin dismissed the possibility of a meeting between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, despite recent efforts by US President Donald Trump to broker a summit.