BERLIN — German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier accused Russia of “playing for time” in its invasion of Ukraine and “delaying serious negotiations,” while also stressing during an interview with Nikkei that U.S. President Donald Trump’s call to bring Russia back into the Group of Seven is “not up for discussion.”
Though the chancellor heads Germany’s government, the president plays an important role as head of state, signaling the country’s direction and providing moral support to the public. His words can have influence in Europe more broadly.
