Scholz and Biden to Discuss Ukraine Aid, NATO, and Israel Conflict, According to Reuters

By Andreas Rinke and Sarah Marsh

BERLIN – German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has stated that his upcoming discussions with U.S. President Joe Biden in Washington will center on enhancing support for Ukraine as it continues to confront Russia’s invasion.

As the war approaches its third year, Ukraine finds itself in a challenging position on the battlefield, facing significant disadvantages in manpower and weaponry. The country is heavily reliant on military and financial assistance from its Western allies.

Thus far, the United States has been Ukraine’s primary supporter. Scholz’s trip comes at a time when concerns are rising regarding U.S. commitment to Ukraine, particularly as Congress has been hesitant to approve an aid package requested by Biden in October amidst internal political conflicts.

European leaders are apprehensive about the potential re-election of Donald Trump, fearing it could jeopardize ongoing support for Ukraine.

"What’s been agreed upon so far in Europe and U.S. Congress is insufficient," Scholz remarked at Berlin airport shortly before departing for Washington. "We need to collaborate on finding ways to contribute more collectively."

The Chancellor’s visit will commence with a dinner on Thursday with U.S. lawmakers from both political parties, followed by a breakfast with U.S. business leaders on Friday morning before his afternoon meeting with Biden.

Recently, the European Union sanctioned a four-year, 50 billion euro aid package for Ukraine, providing a much-needed boost for a nation that is increasingly dependent on Western support. According to German officials, Germany has already provided or pledged approximately 28 billion euros in aid to Ukraine.

"Germany has made a substantial contribution," Scholz noted. "However, this alone will not be sufficient."

Ukrainian military leaders have reported acute shortages of ammunition and artillery shells as Russian forces intensify their assaults in various eastern and southeastern regions of the country.

In an op-ed published Thursday, Scholz cautioned that a possible Russian victory poses threats not only to Ukraine and Europe but to global stability. He stated, "Russia’s ruthless attempt to seize territory by force could set a dangerous precedent for authoritarian leaders worldwide. This increases the risk that other countries might become targets for nearby aggressors."

Scholz is also expected to address strategies for bolstering NATO, as well as the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict during his meeting with Biden. He underscored the shared responsibility of supporting Israel while working towards the necessary conditions for lasting peace in the region, emphasizing the importance of a two-state solution and humanitarian assistance for Gaza.