"Europe cannot just be a spectator," Kramp-Karrenbauer told German television channel Deutsche Welle.

- The security zone would aim to resume the fight with terror and the Islamic State, which has currently taken a break. It would also ensure that we can create stability in the region so that the civilian population can live there again and those who have moved can return voluntarily, says Kramp-Karrenbauer, who is also party leader for CDU.

Kramp-Karrenbauer says Chancellor Angela Merkel is informed and that her proposal is supported by defense and foreign experts in her own party.

Not sure if the proposal will receive support

However, before German soldiers can be sent to Syria, decisions must be taken by both the government and the parliament, the Bundestag. The Christian Democratic CDU rules in a coalition with the Social Democratic SPD and therefore cannot decide the matter on its own.

Of course, it is also far from obvious that the idea is welcomed by the intended partners Turkey and Russia.

Earlier on Monday, Kramp-Karrenbauer's party friend Roderich Kiesewetter, who is in the Foreign Affairs Committee, suggested that a humanitarian protection zone be established and that EU countries should contribute 30,000-40,000 soldiers.

Social Democratic Minister for Foreign Affairs Heiko Maas commented that it is too early for such considerations.