Following a virtual conference with US President Donald Trump and other European leaders, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz indicated a significant level of agreement regarding principles for future negotiations concerning the conflict in Ukraine. Merz stated that Trump is familiar with European positions and “largely shares them”. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy joined the discussions from Berlin.
The Chancellor emphasized the importance of Ukraine’s involvement in subsequent talks, particularly referencing the planned meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. “We made it clear: Ukraine must be at the table once follow-up meetings take place” Merz said. He outlined a preferred sequence for negotiations, beginning with a ceasefire, followed by a framework agreement addressing key issues.
Merz stated that Ukraine is prepared to discuss territorial matters, with the current line of contact serving as the starting point for any discussions. He firmly ruled out any legal recognition of Russian occupation. He reiterated the principle that international borders should not be altered by force.
Robust security guarantees for Kyiv are also essential, the Chancellor stressed. “The Ukrainian armed forces must be able and remain able to effectively defend the sovereignty of their land. They must also be able to count on Western assistance in the long term” he stated.
The Chancellor underscored the need for these negotiations to be part of a unified transatlantic strategy. “This strategy must continue to focus on strong support for Ukraine and necessary pressure on Russia” he said. “If there is no movement on the Russian side in Alaska, then the United States and we Europeans should and must increase the pressure.
He expressed hope for a successful agreement, noting that previous discussions with Putin have consistently been followed by escalated military action. “This time it must be different, otherwise these discussions with him will not be credible and successful.
President Zelenskyy confirmed Trump’s alignment with these principles, stating that the US President had affirmed his support. Zelenskyy also highlighted the importance of preventing Russia from gaining any influence over Ukraine’s future relationship with Europe and NATO.
Dismissing perceptions of Russian success on the ground, Zelenskyy asserted that Russia is attempting to create the illusion of being able to occupy all of Ukraine. He also refuted claims that sanctions are ineffective, emphasizing their significant impact on Russia’s military industry.
Zelenskyy maintained that Putin is not seeking peace, but rather the occupation of Ukraine. Consequently, he argued, “pressure is needed to achieve peace”.