CDU Chairman Friedrich Merz sharply condemned Russia’s recent wave of attacks targeting numerous locations across Ukraine. Speaking on Thursday, Merz stated that the severe attacks demonstrate Moscow’s focus on escalation rather than negotiation, reaffirming that Germany remains steadfastly supportive of Ukraine. He added that Kyiv and its partners are prepared for talks regarding a “just peace” whereas Russia continues its campaign of war.
Details of the military actions were provided by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who reported that Russia deployed 1,567 drones and 56 missiles of various types over the previous two days, hitting targets nationwide.
In a separate address, President Zelenskyy publicly thanked Germany for its support on Thursday. Writing on X (formerly Twitter), he praised Germany’s major contribution to defending against what he called Russian terror. He noted that the air defense systems provided by Germany were instrumental in saving thousands of lives. Zelenskyy concluded by emphasizing the critical importance of continued, coordinated international cooperation to strengthen Europe.