German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has issued a strong warning over Russia’s alleged attempts to destabilize Europe, accusing Moscow of using a combination of military buildup, cyberattacks, and disinformation to weaken the continent from within.

In an interview with Austria’s Krone newspaper published on Saturday, Wadephul stated: “We should not fool ourselves; we are not at war with Russia. But this does not mean Russia allows us to live in peace.” He cited Russia’s ongoing militarization and hybrid warfare tactics as clear indicators of a broader strategy to divide and undermine European unity.

The foreign minister stressed Germany’s commitment to strengthening both its military and social resilience, saying, “We must be so strong, militarily and socially, that the idea of attacking us or our partners doesn’t even occur to Putin.”

Wadephul reiterated Berlin’s unwavering support for Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression, noting that while Kyiv remains open to peace negotiations, the Kremlin has shown no genuine interest in ending the conflict. He added that NATO’s unity remains firm despite Moscow’s efforts to weaken the alliance. “Putin has failed. NATO is stronger than ever,” he said.

On the situation in the Middle East, Wadephul reaffirmed Germany’s support for Israel’s security, calling it a core national responsibility. However, he stressed the importance of upholding international law in all conflicts, saying, “That is the other side of the same coin.”

He praised German-Austrian cooperation on humanitarian aid to Gaza, noting that joint efforts to boost assistance in the war-torn enclave carry significant weight in addressing the worsening humanitarian crisis. Wadephul emphasized the need for sustained international support to alleviate the suffering of civilians caught in conflict.

Wadephul’s comments come amid growing geopolitical tensions in Europe and the Middle East. Berlin continues to play a key role in both bolstering European defense and advocating for humanitarian solutions in global crisis zones.

The minister’s statements reflect Germany’s broader strategy of deterrence and diplomacy in an increasingly volatile international landscape. (ILKHA)