Germany says Russia halting attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure can be 1st step for peace

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Tuesday welcomed Russia's agreement for a limited ceasefire in Ukraine, saying that halting attacks on energy infrastructure could be the first step toward a lasting peace.

Speaking to reporters in Berlin after meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, Scholz said they discussed the latest developments, and the phone conversation between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“We are in complete agreement. The goal of all efforts must be a just and lasting peace for Ukraine. The newly announced ceasefire regarding attacks on energy infrastructure can be a first important step forward,” Scholz said.

“The same applies to the initiation of technical negotiations for a ceasefire at sea. The next step must be a complete ceasefire for Ukraine, and we need this as quickly as possible,” he added.

Scholz also reiterated that Ukraine must be part of negotiations, and no decisions should be made without Ukraine's involvement or over its head.

Macron, for his part, expressed cautious optimism over Russia's agreement to a 30-day suspension of strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure following the Trump-Putin phone call.

“The last discussions are moving in a good direction, and we would, of course, like to achieve a lasting peace for Ukraine,” Macron said. He underlined that Europeans will continue to stand in solidarity with the Ukrainians, and continue providing military support.

“We are pursuing a ceasefire that can be effectively monitored and controlled. Discussions must be planned with the goal of establishing a solid, comprehensive, and lasting peace, along with the necessary security guarantees,” Macron said.

“These are our objectives, and none of this will happen without Ukraine having its place at the negotiating table,” he added.