Merz is doubtful about advancement in Russia-Ukraine conflict

(MENAFN) German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed doubts on Sunday about the likelihood of a diplomatic resolution between Russia and Ukraine, cautioning that the war could continue for a prolonged period.

In an interview with public broadcaster ZDF, Merz acknowledged US President Donald Trump’s efforts to broker peace but noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent actions indicate little interest in negotiations.

"I'm not giving up hope that we can achieve this. But I'm also under no illusions," Merz said, emphasizing that history shows wars typically end either through one side’s military defeat or through economic and military exhaustion. “But I don't see that happening on either side at the moment, either. So I am preparing myself mentally for the fact that this war could go on for a long time. We are trying to end it as quickly as possible. But certainly not at the price of Ukraine's surrender.”

Regarding Western security guarantees and the potential deployment of German troops, Merz stated that sending forces is not currently central to diplomatic discussions. “We're currently trying to formulate security guarantees in the event of a ceasefire. And the number one priority is supporting the Ukrainian army so that they can defend their country in the long term. That's the absolute priority,” he said.

Merz added that many measures could only be implemented after a ceasefire, which would require an agreement with Russia containing reciprocal conditions. “On our side, the condition is that Ukraine permanently maintains its independence, its freedom, and its freedom to choose its own alliances,” he explained.

The chancellor also clarified that any decision regarding Germany’s contribution—whether through peacekeeping troops or air defense support—would require approval from the German parliament, the Bundestag. “Nobody is talking about ground troops in Ukraine at this point. A Bundestag mandate, which I mentioned, applies to every military deployment abroad. And even if we were only to protect the airspace over Ukraine, we would need a Bundestag mandate for that,” he said.

MENAFN01092025000045017281ID1110001470