In an exclusive interview with ARD, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz touched upon the Russian mercenary group Wagner’s rebellion in Russia.
Scholz reiterated that the short-term revolt initiated by Wagner was Russia’s internal affair, and stated that the West had nothing to do with this revolt.
Stating that Wagner’s rebellion weakened Russian President Vladimir Putin, Scholz said, “I believe he has weakened because it shows that there are cracks in autocratic power structures and that he is not as solid as he has always claimed.”
Answering the question about the effect of the uprising on the Ukraine war, Scholz said that the precondition for peace talks in Ukraine is Russia’s withdrawal of its troops from the country, adding, “It is not clear whether this is easier or more difficult because of these events.”
Stating that he does not want to participate in the speculations about how long Putin will stay in office, Scholz stated that the purpose of the West in supporting Ukraine is not to bring about regime change, but to help Ukraine defend itself.
Stating that he met with the leaders of the USA, France, England and Poland after the Wagner rebellion, Scholz said, “We decided to remain silent very quickly. We have nothing to do with the conflict in Russia.”
“I truly believe President Biden will succeed in his re-election bid”
Referring to the upcoming presidential elections in the USA, Scholz stated that he is confident that US President Joe Biden will win the re-election next year, “I really believe that President Biden will succeed in his re-election goal, because he is not only a seasoned politician, but also a true politician in his own country. “He’s someone who works for social cohesion. So he wants what’s right and does what needs to be done to counter Trumpism and other movements like that.”