Chancellor Friedrich Merz of the CDU has lauded the security guarantees offered by the United States for Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire, sparking both cautious optimism and pointed questions regarding the evolving dynamics of the conflict and Germany’s role within it. Addressing the media during Ukraine-related discussions held at the Chancellery on Monday, Merz described the US proposals – encompassing both legal and material assurances – as “truly remarkable” and a “significant advancement” to be welcomed.
The Chancellor framed the ongoing negotiations, which have included intensive, confidential talks between Ukrainian, American and European representatives, as presenting “the chance for a genuine peace process”. Central to this progress, according to Merz, has been the interventions of US negotiators Steven Witkoff and Jared Kushner, whom he credited with playing a “key role”. Notably, he extended significant praise to former US President Donald Trump, stating that the “positive momentum” currently observed would not exist “without their tireless efforts and the engagement of President Trump”. A video conference with Trump is scheduled for later today, alongside consultations with several European heads of state and government.
While acknowledging the potential breakthrough, critical observers are scrutinizing the involvement of Kushner and Trump, raising concerns about the potential influence of their political agendas on the peace process and the precedents set by direct engagement with figures who have previously questioned the strength of the transatlantic alliance. The inclusion of these figures and the explicit, seemingly personal endorsement of their efforts by Chancellor Merz, risks overshadowing the more nuanced efforts of established diplomatic channels.
A critical and unresolved issue remains the question of territorial arrangements. Merz affirmed that this decision ultimately rests with the Ukrainian people and their president, stating that progress has been made towards a “common negotiating position”. However, the specifics of this position remain unclear and could represent a source of further contention.
Furthermore, Chancellor Merz confirmed plans for a forthcoming proposal at the European Council meeting on Thursday aimed at leveraging frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine. He assured that the “legitimate concerns” of Belgium and other nations regarding asset seizure would be considered, signaling potential compromises aimed at navigating legal and political hurdles within the EU. This initiative, while intended to alleviate Ukraine’s economic hardship, also draws attention to the complex legal framework surrounding sovereign assets and the potential ramifications for international financial stability.
The rapid political shifts and reliance on specific personalities in these negotiations raise fundamental questions about the long-term stability of any potential agreement and the extent to which Germany is aligning its foreign policy with the agendas of figures outside of the established international order.