Merz stresses the need to involve Europeans in peace negotiations in Ukraine
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that European security, of which Ukraine's security is an integral part, cannot be discussed without the presence of Europeans at the peace negotiating table.
"Today marks a milestone. For four long years, the Ukrainian people have defended not only their sovereignty but also the foundations of the European order and peace. We are all extremely grateful for the enormous sacrifices made by Ukrainian service members and civilians," Merz said, joining the meeting of the Coalition of the Willing via video link.
"Ukraine's security and Europe's security are inseparable. Therefore, European security cannot be discussed without Europeans at this table," the German Chancellor emphasized.
Merz noted that Germany's commitment to Ukraine's defense remains unwavering. "Today, we are providing Ukraine with our strongest support. My government has increased military support to EUR 11.5 billion by 2026. And we are continuously improving our defense cooperation within the EU. We are working to finalize the EUR 90 billion loan, so that the first payments will be made in April," he said.
According to Merz, within the framework of this Coalition of the Willing, "we are working to provide swift and strong security guarantees to ensure that Ukraine never faces such aggression again. Therefore, we must make it clear that this war will only end when Putin realizes he cannot win. And that is precisely why we must increase pressure on Russia," Merz emphasized.
"We need to deplete Russia's funding for the war. The European Union's next round of sanctions is aimed precisely at this goal," Merz emphasized.
"Moscow is no longer as strong as it would like the world to think. Russia must not win. Therefore, we will continue to work toward long-term peace. A peace without a theory that would support aggression, and with powerful security guarantees," Merz said.
