Following anticipated discussions between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has publicly urged Russia to agree to a ceasefire and engage in negotiations with Ukraine.
“Three and a half years after the unlawful aggression against Ukraine, Russia now has the opportunity to agree to a ceasefire and cease hostilities” Chancellor Merz stated. “We expect President Putin to take President Trump’s offer of dialogue seriously and, following the meeting in Alaska, to enter into negotiations with Ukraine without preconditions.
Germany, according to Merz, has worked closely with Ukraine and its European allies to outline a path toward peace that safeguards the fundamental security interests of both Europe and Ukraine. “The goal must be a summit that also includes President Zelenskyy, where a ceasefire can be agreed upon” he emphasized.
Merz underscored that Ukraine requires robust security guarantees and any territorial questions must be resolved with the consent of the Ukrainian people. He stated that these messages were communicated clearly and firmly to President Trump prior to his departure for Anchorage, adding that he remains in ongoing contact with the US President.
The Chancellor thanked President Trump for taking the initiative and for what he described as close coordination with European partners. “President Trump can now take a significant step towards peace” he said, adding that Ukraine can rely on sustained support from its European allies.
