German politicians urge tougher NATO stance on Russia ahead of Ankara summit

Union foreign policy expert Jürgen Hardt called on the NATO alliance to adopt a harder line toward Russia before the summit in Ankara, urging clear messages to both Moscow and China. He emphasized the need for political unity, stating that "Moscow must have no doubt that support for Ukraine is unwavering" and that China’s backing of Russia’s war effort should be called out.

AfD leader Tino Chrupalla, in a television interview, labeled Defense Minister Boris Pistorius a "war minister" and warned that Germany risks becoming war‑ready by continuing massive aid to Ukraine. He criticized the planned €70 billion two‑year assistance package for Ukraine, questioning its effectiveness and warning of further escalation with Russia.