Defense Committee and Foreign Affairs Committee meetings rejected, according to Luise Amtsberg

In the past two weeks, the situation in Ukraine and Europe has reached a critical point, with Putin bombarding Ukraine with unabated ferocity. Amidst this tense environment, the need for swift and effective action from the German parliament has never been more pressing.

Luise Amtsberg, Chairwoman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, has taken the lead in this call for action. She has requested an extraordinary session for both the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Defense Committee, emphasizing the parliament's need to function independently in addressing these issues. However, these requests have been rejected by the current federal government led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who has been in office since May 7, 2025.

The rejection of these requests is seen as a hindrance to the parliament's ability to function effectively. The government's actions should not obstruct the parliament's decision-making process, particularly in such intense and critical situations.

The need to continue putting pressure on Putin is highlighted, as a sustainable ceasefire is necessary for peace negotiations. Additionally, the frozen assets and the threat posed by the Russian shadow fleet need to be addressed. Many questions remain regarding the security of Europe and Germany, making it imperative that the German Bundestag discusses and makes decisions on these current issues.

The Foreign Affairs Committee, with its protected framework for such discussions, offers a suitable platform for these crucial debates. Delaying decision-making on these intense issues until after the parliamentary summer recess is considered inadequate. The parliamentary summer recess is not seen as an appropriate time to address these critical issues.

Concurrent budget negotiations are ongoing, but they should not overshadow the urgent need for the parliament to address the pressing matters at hand. Simple updates from the federal government are insufficient for obtaining confidential information, and the parliament needs to be fully informed to make informed decisions.

As the situation in Ukraine and Europe continues to evolve, the German parliament must rise to the challenge and take immediate action. The intensity of the decisions at hand warrants the parliament's undivided attention, and the parliament should not be hindered in its decision-making process. The future of Ukraine and Europe hangs in the balance, and the German Bundestag has a vital role to play in shaping that future.