Klingbeil: Germany will not allow Russia's return to G20

Vice-Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil criticised Washington's initiatives aimed at restoring Russia's position on the global stage. The politician emphasised that European countries will not allow the Russian Federation to be readmitted to the G20.

Statement in Bangkok

During his stay in Bangkok, Klingbeil expressed concern regarding the current process of rapprochement between the US and Russia. He stressed that he is observing these developments with deep concern.

«Я з великим занепокоєнням спостерігаю за цим процесом зближення. Спроби вдавати, ніби Росія повертається до складу G20 як повноправний учасник і знову сідає за стіл переговорів – цього не допущу ні я, ні інші європейці» (I am watching this process of rapprochement with great concern. Attempts to pretend that Russia is returning to the G20 as a full-fledged participant and sitting back at the negotiating table – I, and other Europeans, will not allow this), the German official noted.

Berlin's position on negotiations

Klingbeil emphasised the unwavering support that Germany and the rest of Europe provide to Ukraine. He warned that any diplomatic contacts must not take place at the expense of Ukrainians or over their heads.

«Переговори – це завжди доречно, але дозвольте мені чітко наголосити: вони в жодному разі не повинні відбуватися за рахунок українців або через їхні голови – як і через голову президента Зеленського» (Negotiations are always appropriate, but let me emphasise clearly: they must in no way take place at the expense of Ukrainians or over their heads – nor over the head of President Zelensky), the Vice-Chancellor added.