German officials on Ukraine, navy chief resignation

(24 Jan 2022) Germany’s Foreign Office on Monday commented on the resignation of the head of the German navy, saying that the government “explicitly disassociates itself from the comments made“. Late on Saturday, Vice Admiral Kay-Achim Schoenbach resigned after coming under fire for saying that Ukraine would not regain the Crimean Peninsula, and for suggesting that Putin deserves “respect.” His comments, captured on video, caused anger in Ukraine, which summoned the German ambassador to complain. They also sparked consternation and a swift rebuke back in Berlin. By late Saturday, Schoenbach had asked for his dismissal, saying he wanted to prevent further damage resulting to Germany and its military from his “ill-considered statements.“ In a statement, the German navy said Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht had accepted Schoenbach’s resignation and appointed his deputy as interim naval chief. The German government has insisted that it stands united with its NAT