Germany’s Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil has voiced strong support for Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s diplomatic initiative to involve European perspectives in the forthcoming negotiations between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding Ukraine.
Speaking to the “Rheinische Post”, Klingbeil emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring Ukraine is optimally supported ahead of the anticipated talks and that European interests are represented during the discussions. He stressed the importance of decisions not being made without the input of both Ukraine and European nations.
Klingbeil highlighted Merz’s organization of a digital summit today, intended to forge a unified European position at this crucial juncture. He characterized this as a significant signal of solidarity, reaffirming Germany’s stance alongside Ukraine.
Merz is scheduled to engage in video conferences this afternoon, initially with fellow European leaders, followed by discussions with President Trump. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will participate in person at the Chancellery during these consultations. The meeting between Trump and Putin is slated to take place Friday in Alaska.