The Prime Minister of Saxony is sticking to his line: he doesn't want to let economic relations with Russia break down and is calling for the war in Ukraine to be frozen. In view of the increased energy prices, he sees dangers for regional suppliers.
Dresden (dpa / sn) - According to the Saxon Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer (CDU), Germany must play a mediating role in Russia's war against Ukraine. The head of government justified this on Tuesday primarily with the size of the country and its history. One was very involved in the European association, but had to play a central role in resolving the conflict together with France, the USA and other countries. "We must work to ensure that this war is frozen." It's about gaining time to be able to invest in security measures.
This does not mean that Ukraine should give up territories, said Kretschmer. It is not about submission and the cession of territories. Russia's war is an injustice and a crime. But one has to recognize that he is throwing the entire world and Europe into chaos in particular. If the war continues like this, there is a risk of losing the economic power needed to organize security and remain competitive.
According to Kretschmer, Germany and Europe must clarify their position on this war. He currently understands the statements that firstly it is about winning the war and secondly never again buying raw materials from Russia. If that is the attitude, there will be no ceasefire negotiations. The current discussion is currently "very one-sided".
"I am firmly convinced that we need these supplies of raw materials. Secondly, I am of the opinion that we must try together (...) to influence the Russian President and also to convince Ukraine that we can all resolve this conflict together have to freeze. It's different from what's going on right now."
Kretschmer appeared alone at the cabinet press conference on Tuesday to answer questions about current topics again before the summer break. He reiterated his demands, for example to extend the life of nuclear power plants and criticized the federal government's adherence to the energy transition, the initial conditions of which, according to Kretschmer, have changed completely. At the same time, he expressed his concern about increased gas prices and called for a protective shield for public utilities and regional suppliers. These companies are important for the welfare of the public and "cornerstones of social peace."
The Saxon head of government met with representatives of municipal utilities and regional suppliers on Monday to exchange views. With gas prices moving, those utilities could start to "wobble," he said. "We're going to face very difficult times here." The federal government should not only support the large gas importers.
According to Kretschmer, the regional suppliers need an exemption from liability in the event that the Federal Network Agency introduces a ranking for the energy supply and then lawsuits from companies threaten. In addition, it is about an extension of the obligation to file for insolvency, guarantees, bridging aid in the event of liquidity bottlenecks and a fair system of cost distribution. It must be clarified quickly how this happens.
