Sat Jan 18 17:47:56 UTC 2025: ## German Defence Minister Considers Troop Deployment to Ukraine in Demilitarized Zone

**Berlin, Germany** – Germany’s Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has indicated openness to deploying German troops to a demilitarised zone between Ukraine and Russia, contingent upon a ceasefire agreement. This statement, published Saturday in the *Suddeutsche Zeitung*, comes amidst rising tensions and incoming US President Donald Trump’s demand for increased NATO defence spending.

Pistorius stated that Germany, as Europe’s largest NATO partner, would play a significant role in securing such a zone. However, he added that the issue would be discussed at a later date. This follows President-elect Trump’s campaign promise to resolve the Ukraine conflict swiftly, a claim now seemingly tempered by his team. A meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected soon, potentially initiating peace talks.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte cautioned that Ukraine’s current position does not allow for effective negotiations with Russia. Pistorius highlighted that Russia currently occupies 18-19% of Ukrainian territory, but has failed to make significant gains despite nearly three years of war, suffering heavy losses estimated by the US at nearly 1,500 soldiers daily in November.

Regarding NATO defence spending, Pistorius advocated for Germany to aim for 3% of its GDP, exceeding the current 2%, but falling short of Trump’s 5% demand, which Chancellor Olaf Scholz previously rejected as excessively high. Scholz noted that a 5% target would require an additional €150 billion annually for Germany.

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