With regard to the consequences for Germany, he adds: “This path is not easy, not even for a strong, prosperous country like ours.” Many citizens are already suffering from the effects of the war, especially from the high prices for gasoline and food. That is why the government has decided on two relief packages with a volume of 30 billion euros.

“But the truth is: The global economy is facing a challenge that has not been seen in decades“, emphasizes the SPD politician. Supply chains are broken, raw materials are scarce and there is war-related uncertainty in the energy markets. All of this drives up prices worldwide. “No country in the world can stand alone against such a development,” emphasizes Scholz. “We have to stick together and join hands,” he writes, referring to the government’s so-called concerted action with trade unions, employers and scientists.

“It was clear to us from the beginning that we might have to maintain our sanctions for a long time.” Putin must be clear that not a single sanction will be lifted if a Russian dictated peace is reached, emphasizes Scholz on the six sanctions packages so far. This not only shows solidarity with the “existence threatened Ukraine”, but also ensures your own protection.

“If we don’t counter Putin’s aggression now, he could continue‘ the Chancellor warned, pointing out that NATO could no longer rule out the possibility of a Russian attack on NATO territory. “Letting Putin get away with it would mean that violence can break the law with virtually no consequences. Then ultimately our own freedom and security would also be in danger.”

The background is the concern in the government that rising energy prices could cause support for the sanctions policy to crumble. Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser (SPD) warned that “populists and extremists” could use the crisis for fear and division, but also for hatred and threats.