Mon Aug 18 16:38:12 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, during a visit to Japan on August 18, 2025, strongly criticized China’s aggressive actions in the Asia-Pacific region, including its threats to unilaterally alter borders in the Taiwan Strait, East China Sea, and South China Sea. He emphasized the global consequences of any escalation in this crucial trade hub. Wadephul also condemned China’s support for Russia’s war in Ukraine, asserting that it is enabling the conflict by providing crucial supplies and serving as a major energy customer. He stressed the need for security guarantees for Ukraine and increased pressure on Russia, particularly following a summit between US President Trump and Russian President Putin. Wadephul highlighted upcoming talks in Washington aimed at establishing a negotiated solution for a just peace in Ukraine.
**News Article:**
**German FM Condemns China’s Aggression in Asia-Pacific, Support for Russia in Ukraine**
*Tokyo, August 18, 2025* – German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul today delivered a scathing critique of China’s increasingly assertive behavior in the Asia-Pacific region, accusing Beijing of repeatedly threatening to unilaterally alter borders. Speaking in Tokyo after meeting with his Japanese counterpart Takeshi Iwaya, Wadephul cited China’s actions in the Taiwan Strait and the East and South China Seas as examples of its aggressive pursuit of regional supremacy.
“China repeatedly threatens, more or less openly, to unilaterally change the status quo and shift borders in its favour,” Wadephul stated, warning of the serious consequences any escalation would have for global security and the world economy.
Wadephul’s statement, released before his trip to Japan and Indonesia, emphasized that China’s actions are challenging the fundamental principles of international law. He also strongly criticized China’s support for Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.
“Without it, the war of aggression against Ukraine would not be possible,” Wadephul asserted, highlighting China’s role as Russia’s largest supplier of dual-use goods and primary oil and gas customer.
Looking ahead to upcoming talks in Washington between US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and European leaders, Wadephul emphasized the importance of establishing security guarantees for Kyiv. He noted that while President Trump’s recent summit with Vladimir Putin in Alaska offered a glimmer of hope, pressure on Russia must continue, including through increased aid to Ukraine.
“The talks on Monday in Washington are about establishing the elements of a negotiated solution on the path to a just peace for Ukraine,” Wadephul said. “Firm security guarantees are crucial for this, because Ukraine must be able to defend itself effectively even after a ceasefire and peace agreement.”
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