Kyiv and its partners seek to end Russia’s war as soon as possible, but not at the price of Ukraine’s capitulation.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said this in an interview with ZDF, according to Ukrinform.
“I am preparing myself inwardly for this war to last a long time. Efforts are being made through intensive diplomatic initiatives to end the war as quickly as possible, but this cannot be at the price of Ukraine’s capitulation. Because then the state would lose its independence. And then the day after tomorrow it will be us. That is not an option,” Merz said.
When asked if a ceasefire could be possible this year, the Chancellor said he does not give hope, but he is also “under no illusions.” He explained that wars typically end in one of two ways: either through a military defeat on one side or through economic and military exhaustion. According to Merz, that is not happening on either side at the moment.
He noted that intensive diplomatic initiatives are now underway to end the war as soon as possible — initiatives that have not occurred in the past three and a half years. He cited his very active contacts with European leaders, including the presidents of France and the United States, and stressed the importance of the U.S. remaining alongside European allies in seeking a solution.
Merz emphasized that the absolute priority is supporting Ukraine’s defense capabilities. Regarding security guarantees, such as the deployment of ground troops in the event of a ceasefire, he said this is currently not under discussion among allies.
“Nobody is talking about ground troops in Ukraine at this point… The number one priority is supporting the Ukrainian army so that they can defend their country in the long term,” he said, adding that allies are discussing potential security guarantees after a truce is reached.
He also noted that if Bundeswehr forces were to be deployed at some point, for example to protect Ukrainian airspace after hostilities end, it would require a Bundestag mandate.
Merz stressed that any peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia would require Ukraine, with the support of its allies, to maintain its independence, freedom, and non-aligned status.
As reported, leaders of the two German coalition factions — Jens Spahn (CDU/CSU) and Matthias Miersch (SPD) — arrived in Kyiv.
Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine
