German Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke at Katholikentag, a gathering of German Catholics on Friday (May 31), Reuters reports.
The most prevalent topics of discussion were the rise of far-right violence in Germany as well as the country’s support for Ukraine in its war effort. Scholz reiterated that his approach to the Ukraine crisis remains one of prudent and level-headed decisions, as an escalation to full scale war between Russia and NATO should be avoided. During his speech the chancellor was interrupted several times by audience members. The people interrupting wanted to draw attention to the issue of climate change.
"While supporting Ukraine we must, at the same time, remain aware of how to prevent an escalation that might cause a war between Russia and NATO. I want to make it clear that this cannot be achieved without prudence and level-headedness. It cannot be achieved without first considering every possible measure and what it means in the context of this potential threat of escalation. And it cannot be achieved without thoroughly consulting one's allies. We do this again and again. I promise, no matter how big the pressure becomes, that I will always act prudently to resolve issues in such a dangerous situation. We have to avoid the big war - the war between Russia and NATO. We must at the same time ensure that Ukraine is able to defend its sovereignty and independence," Scholz stated.
While in Erfurt Olaf Scholz also visited a synagogue, the “Alte Synagoge”. He was greeted there by Erfurt's mayor and took a tour of the Synagogue Museum.
