Speaking on the war in Ukraine and the situation involving Russia, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) called upon NATO member states to demonstrate unity against Moscow. At the presentation of the Westphalian Peace Prize to NATO in Münster, Merz stated that the neighbors in Eastern Europe were consistently the primary victims whenever the West approached Russia divided. He emphasized that unity toward Moscow has always proven effective, citing NATO as the best example of this principle.
The German politician described the military alliance, which has been a “pillar” of a “new European security architecture” since the Second World War, as fundamentally remaining an “alliance of freedom.” To draw parallels, Merz referenced the Peace of Westphalia following the Thirty Years’ War.
Merz further argued that strength and cohesion are crucial preconditions for successful negotiations with Moscow today. He stressed the importance of maintaining the support of the United States on Ukraine policy, noting it was a significant achievement to secure this support at the G7 summit in Evian several weeks prior.
Despite advocating for strong international stance, Merz did not argue for a complete break with Moscow. He maintained that the goal is to establish stable and predictable relationships with Russia when the time is right. Crucially, he stated that Russia must end its war of aggression against Ukraine and return to the “European order of peace.” However, Merz conceded that based on current circumstances, Russia is “not prepared” to do so.
