Petr Pavel in an Interview with German Journalist Paul Ronzheimer: Warning About Russia and Criticism of Trump

In an interview with German journalist Paul Ronzheimer, Petr Pavel discusses Vladimir Putin's war aims, the threat of a Russian attack on NATO and Europe's role in the war in Ukraine.

Czech President Petr Pavel warns of a possible military confrontation between Russia and NATO. In an extensive interview with German journalist Paul Ronzheimer in Prague, the former NATO general discusses the current security situation in Europe, Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump's policy towards Russia.

Pavel, who served as Chairman of the NATO Military Committee before his political career, also provides insights into his previous discussions with Russian Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov. He describes his experiences of dealing directly with Russia's military leadership and explains how he assesses Putin's strategic objectives and his approach to the war against Ukraine.

Video: Petr Pavel in an Interview with Paul Ronzheimer – The Full Interview in English

Criticism of Trump and Europe's Ukraine Policy

The Czech President is sharply critical of Donald Trump's approach to Russia and Ukraine. Pavel also calls on Europe to take greater responsibility: in his view, Ukraine has not received sufficient support so far. At the same time, he argues that European countries should play a more active role in potential negotiations with Russia.

Another key focus of the interview is the question of how great the threat of a Russian attack on NATO member states really is. Pavel explains why he considers Putin predictable despite his aggressive foreign policy. He also expresses the view that the Kremlin leader is becoming increasingly isolated out of fear of a possible assassination attempt.

The interview also explores the conditions under which a future rapprochement between Europe and Russia might be conceivable.

Paul Ronzheimer – German Journalist, Author and War Correspondent

Paul Ronzheimer (born July 26, 1985) is a prominent German journalist, author, and war/crisis correspondent who serves as the Deputy Editor-in-Chief for Bild and a cross-brand journalistic face for Axel Springer (reporting across outlets like Welt TV and Politico).


Paul Ronzheimer
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