Scholz: Support for Ukraine is key to restoring peace in Europe

(Patria) - German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called for continued Western support for Ukraine in its war with Russia, saying on Saturday that Germany will not give up in its efforts to support Kyiv.

Speaking at a meeting of European social democrats in Bucharest, Scholz said the best way to prevent any escalation, including a potential conflict between Russia and NATO, is what he called effective deterrence, Reuters reported.

"The war in Ukraine will end the moment (Russian) President (Vladimir) Putin decides to withdraw his troops.

However, he will only make that decision if he realizes that he cannot win the war on the battlefield," said the German leader, whose country has so far provided 28 billion euros in military support to Ukraine.

"Therefore, together as Europeans, we are investing more in our own security and defense so that no one dares to attack us. This also means putting narrow interests aside and building a strong and truly European defense industry," concluded the German Chancellor.