Germany’s Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, has sharply criticized China for its persistent threats to unilaterally alter borders in the Asia-Pacific region, describing Beijing’s behavior as “increasingly aggressive.”
“China repeatedly threatens, more or less openly, to change the status quo and shift borders in its favor,” Wadephul said during a visit to Japan, citing Chinese actions in the Taiwan Strait and the East and South China Seas.
Wadephul emphasized that any escalation in this strategically critical region could have serious consequences for global security and the world economy.
China’s Regional Ambitions
In a statement issued ahead of his visits to Japan and Indonesia, Wadephul noted that China is imposing its regional supremacy, challenging international law, and endangering fundamental principles of global coexistence.
“China’s increasingly aggressive behavior has implications for Europe as well. Core principles of our global coexistence are at risk,” he stated.
China and the War in Ukraine
Wadephul also condemned China’s support for Russia’s war effort in Ukraine, calling it crucial to the continuation of Russian aggression.
“Without China, the war of aggression against Ukraine would not be possible. China is Russia’s largest supplier of dual-use goods and a major client for oil and gas,” he said.
Security Guarantees for Ukraine
Ahead of the upcoming meeting in Washington between U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and European leaders, Wadephul stressed that strong security guarantees for Kyiv are essential.
“The Alaska summit between Trump and Putin highlighted that for a fair and lasting peace, Moscow must act. Until then, pressure on Russia must increase, including through enhanced support for Ukraine,” he said.
Wadephul described Monday’s Washington talks as focused on defining elements for a negotiated path toward a just peace in Ukraine, emphasizing that Ukraine must be able to defend itself even after a ceasefire and peace agreement.
