German Foreign Minister Meets Russian Counterpart Amid Security and Food-Export Tensions

On September 27, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The encounter was the first direct talks between the two officials since before Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, and it was framed by Wadephul as a necessary step to address emerging security and humanitarian challenges.

Reuters

Wadephul alleged that Russia deployed armed drones at Leipzig airport, a move he said “crossed a line” and compelled Germany to signal its readiness to defend itself. He also highlighted a growing food-export crisis, noting that colleagues from the Global South had urged him to discuss a cease-fire in the Black Sea to prevent famine. The meeting therefore combined two priorities: deterring perceived Russian aggression and reviving grain and energy shipments that have been disrupted by attacks on vessels and port infrastructure.

Reuters

Wadephul told German broadcaster ARD that “Russia has to understand that we are ready to resist and to defend ourselves” and that Lavrov, speaking at a news conference, said he had learned nothing new from Wadephul that was not already public, remarking that Wadephul could simply have called him and “read my statement.” He characterized Germany’s position as weak and lacking substantive arguments.

Reuters

• “Russia has to understand that we are ready to resist and to defend ourselves,” — Johann Wadephul, german foreign minister

Reuters

• “A number of colleagues, especially from the Global South, asked me to speak with Russia,” — Johann Wadephul, german foreign minister

Reuters

• “But now the time had come when I believed we needed to talk,” — Johann Wadephul, german foreign minister

Reuters

• “Russia cannot explain to the world why it is continuing this war,” — Johann Wadephul, german foreign minister

Reuters