German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has fiercely rejected European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s remarks about potential EU military involvement in Ukraine, labeling the idea as “completely wrong” and emphasizing that the bloc lacks authority over such decisions. Speaking during a visit to an arms manufacturer near Cologne, Pistorius underscored that discussions on troop deployments should remain confidential, warning against public speculation.
“The European Union has no jurisdiction or competence whatsoever regarding the deployment of troops, regardless of the context,” Pistorius stated, adding that any commentary on such matters would be “inappropriate.” He highlighted ongoing internal debates among EU members about hypothetical scenarios but stressed the need for discretion.
The minister’s remarks follow von der Leyen’s claim that EU officials were drafting detailed plans for a multinational force in Ukraine post-conflict, with U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly endorsing the concept. However, Pistorius dismissed these discussions as premature and unauthorized.
Russia has consistently opposed foreign military presence in Ukraine, with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reiterating earlier this month that any external intervention would “absolutely unacceptable” and risk escalating tensions.
The controversy underscores deepening divisions within European political circles over Ukraine’s future security arrangements, with Germany’s leadership maintaining a firm stance against unilateral military actions by supranational bodies.