However, Merz noted that “European affairs can only be resolved in agreement with Europe.”
“Europe is not a pawn, but a sovereign player pursuing its own interests and values,” the German Chancellor emphasized (quote from dpa).
Germany wants the war to “end as soon as possible,” but “an agreement reached between the major powers without the consent of Ukraine and without the consent of the Europeans will not become the basis for a genuine, lasting peace in Ukraine,” Merz said.
According to him, in order for real peace negotiations to take place, illegitimate Russian President Vladimir Putin must realize “the futility of his military adventure.”
As Merz said, the war could end “tomorrow” if the Russian Federation ceased hostilities and withdrew its troops from the territory of Ukraine.
“We do not want peace through capitulation, but rather peaceful coexistence of the peoples of Europe based on our democratic, liberal values,” said the German Chancellor.
Merz assured that the German government will continue to support Ukraine “as long as necessary.”
Thus, the German budget for 2026 will provide €11.5 billion for this, the German Chancellor informed.
Merz spoke in the Bundestag amid negotiations on a “peace plan” for Ukraine.
