Scholz declares Germany's "crucial role" in countering Putin's imperial ambitions in Europe

This was reported by the US Foreign Affairs magazine.

"Russia’s brutal attack on Ukraine in February 2022 then ushered in a fundamentally new reality: imperialism had returned to Europe. Russia is using some of the most gruesome military methods of the twentieth century and causing unspeakable suffering in Ukraine," Scholz said.

He also said that Germany's new role will require a new strategic culture, and the national security strategy that his government will adopt in a few months will reflect this fact.

"For the last three decades, decisions regarding Germany’s security and the equipment of the country’s armed forces were taken against the backdrop of a Europe at peace. Now, the guiding question will be which threats we and our allies must confront in Europe, most immediately from Russia.These include potential assaults on allied territory, cyberwarfare, and even the remote chance of a nuclear attack, which Putin has not so subtly threatened," Scholz noted.

In addition, he also emphasized that Germany will continue its efforts to support Ukraine as long as necessary.

"The West must protect our open societies, stand up for our democratic values, and strengthen our alliances and partnerships. But we must also avoid the temptation to once again divide the world into blocs," Scholz wrote.

According to Scholz, stronger European and transatlantic unity is needed.

"The transatlantic partnership is and remains vital to confronting these challenges. US President Joe Biden and his administration deserve praise for building and investing in strong partnerships and alliances across the globe," German chancellor said.