BERLIN

If Russia stops air bombings in Ukraine, this could serve as a starting point for talks, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Sunday, after a summit of European leaders in London.

Scholz told reporters that the leaders have reaffirmed their continued political, financial, and military support to Ukraine during the meeting, while they have also discussed possible diplomatic pathways for a ceasefire and long-term peace.

"We also talked about how we can move forward. It would be very helpful if the bombardment stops, whether it concerns the aerial attacks, or the circumstances at sea. This could be the starting point for talks that can then continue," the German chancellor said.

He underlined that Ukraine should be strongly backed by the allies, and its army should be further strengthened to ensure deterrence against Russia.

“Around this we will find other measures of security, guarantees, and support. But the basis of everything must be a strong Ukrainian army which is not easily attacked,” he said.

Scholz said that Russia has long desired to change the government in Kyiv and repeatedly demanded the demilitarization of the country, but underlined that both demands are unacceptable to Ukrainians as well as Europeans.

“Russia has always wanted to establish a government in Ukraine that dances to the Russian tune. That cannot be accepted,” Scholz said, adding that Ukraine is a democratic and sovereign nation, which has decided to join the EU.

“The second issue is demilitarization. Russia keeps demanding that too and it cannot be accepted. Conversely, Ukraine must be strong enough, on the basis of its experiences, not be attacked again,” he stressed.