German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has called for a “geopolitical European Union” and urged for a unified EU approach to global issues, warning that the continent will only be heard if it speaks with one voice. Scholz made the comments in a speech to the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Europe Day. The Chancellor also said that Ukraine was “part of the European family of peoples” and called for greater support for the country. Scholz’s comments come ahead of the awarding of the prestigious Charlemagne Prize to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the Ukrainian people in recognition of their defense of European values and the continent’s unity.
In his speech, Scholz said: “We need a geopolitical European Union, an expanded and reformed European Union, and, last but not least, a future-oriented European Union.” He added that Europe must take on greater global responsibility.
Scholz’s comments follow the 78th anniversary of the end of World War II and the 90th anniversary of the burning of books by the Nazis, with the Chancellor emphasizing the importance of democracy, freedom, and peace. German Culture Minister Monika Grütters called on citizens to fight for these values every day.
Germany has been a key supporter of Ukraine since Russia’s attack on the country in 2022, with more than €14bn in aid already provided. The Charlemagne Prize, Europe’s oldest and most renowned award honoring achievements in European integration, will be presented to Zelensky and the Ukrainian people on 14 May. Scholz will deliver a keynote address at the ceremony.