BUndescancer Olaf Scholz (SPD) called on the Germans to stick together in his New Year’s speech. Germany is “a strong country” that “holds together, especially in difficult times”. It is true that a difficult year is coming to an end, which is also putting Germany to the test due to Russia’s “imperialist war of aggression” in Ukraine.
But 2022 was not only marked by war, suffering and worry. Putin “didn’t overrun Ukraine in a few days” as he had planned. “The Ukrainians are bravely defending their homeland – also thanks to our help,” said the Chancellor, according to the speech transcript.
“Overwhelming compassion and helpfulness”
Scholz promised to continue to support the beleaguered Ukraine. As a result of the war, the EU and NATO are not split, but are “more united than they have been for a long time”. And Germany “didn’t give in” when Russia turned off the gas supply in the summer. “Because we won’t allow ourselves to be blackmailed!” said the Chancellor.
Scholz recalled the opening of the first LNG terminal in Wilhelmshaven two weeks ago, which was built in less than 200 days. Thanks to three more liquid gas terminals that went into operation in the coming months, Germany and Europe made themselves “permanently independent of Russian gas”. As a result, and thanks to the jointly saved energy, the country is getting through the winter well.
Scholz thanked the Germans for their voluntary commitment. He spoke of the “overwhelming compassion and helpfulness” with which many of the refugees from Ukraine had met. Helping people in need “is what sets us apart”. The Chancellor thanked the soldiers of the Bundeswehr for defending “our country, our friends and allies against all threats”. They deserve “the highest respect” for it.
Scholz recalled the relief packages for citizens and mentioned aid that will come into effect on New Year’s Day: housing allowance for low earners, higher child benefit and a higher child allowance, tax relief and the cost cap for electricity, gas and district heating.
