Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) engaged in telephone conversations with both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday, according to a statement released by government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius.
The discussions focused primarily on the evolving situation in Gaza. Both leaders reportedly concurred on the urgency of reaching a swift resolution during upcoming talks in Egypt. A key point of agreement was the imperative need for the immediate release of all hostages, an end to ongoing hostilities and the disarmament of Hamas. The statement acknowledged the protracted conflict and emphasized a shared view that the time for a peaceful resolution has arrived.
Beyond the situation in Gaza, the conversations also encompassed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Chancellor Merz reportedly briefed Mr. Trump on Germany’s proposal regarding the potential utilization of frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine’s military capabilities. Both individuals affirmed their commitment to collaboratively pursuing a swift end to the Russian military offensive.