German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul considers Thursday “an important date” regarding a possible end to the war in Ukraine.

Axar.az reports, citing Tagesschau, Wadephul called on Russia to “come to the negotiating table.”

“Russia must not leave an empty chair there — it must show up if it is truly interested in peace,” said the Foreign Minister.

If Russia ignores the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s offer for talks, Wadephul warned Moscow of further measures. “There will be consequences,” said the CDU politician, adding, “We will not stand by and watch as Russia simply continues this war.”