Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) has asked the Ukrainian government to approach Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.

In view of the upset surrounding Steinmeier's discharge, he thinks it is appropriate "that Ukraine must now also make its contribution in discussions with the Federal President," said Scholz on Wednesday at the end of the cabinet meeting at Meseberg Castle.

Talks are currently taking place between the two sides on the subject, said the Chancellor.

What exactly he expects from Ukraine, he does not want to say publicly because that would not contribute to a solution, he said.

In Meseberg, Scholz reiterated his criticism of Ukraine's actions and emphasized that he agreed with the vast majority of people in Germany when it came to his criticism: "It is a problem for the German government, also for the German people, that the Federal President was asked not to come and that will have to be considered.”

The chancellor emphasized that even after Steinmeier had been invited he had "frequently telephoned the Ukrainian president" and intends to continue doing so.

"In this respect, we are in close contact with each other, and that is the attitude that we have as a government."

Scholz: Germany acts like the USA and France

In addition, Scholz defended the course of the federal government in arms deliveries to Ukraine.

There is a very precise line that is being followed unchanged, said Scholz in Meseberg.

The coalition is in complete agreement on what needs to be done here.

Armaments from the stocks of the Bundeswehr had been delivered and it was being looked at what was still going on.

Order processes would be triggered on the basis of a list discussed with Ukraine.

Germany participates in ring exchanges.

The country acts “completely identical” to the USA, Great Britain or France.

Scholz outlined "the changed combat situation" in Ukraine to justify the change in arms deliveries.

Air defense plays an increased role, said Scholz, with a view to the attempted Russian advance in eastern Ukraine.

Last week, the government allowed the export of heavy weapons directly from Germany for the first time by approving up to 50 Gepard anti-aircraft tanks.

Germany and its allies are campaigning for artillery to be used.

For example, Germany has agreed to support the United States in providing training on their devices, "which is necessary because it cannot work otherwise," said Scholz.

In close coordination with the Netherlands, Germany is also agreeing on a joint contribution.