Zelensky plans to visit Germany on Wednesday: a diplomatic maneuver amid rising tensions
On Wednesday, May 28, an important high-level diplomatic meeting is expected in Berlin: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will arrive in Germany. This is a significant event for Ukrainian-European relations, as the president's personal visit indicates Kyiv's desire to strengthen partnership ties with one of its key allies in Europe. News of Zelensky's intention to visit Berlin appeared in the media, citing the German outlet Der Spiegel and the Ukrainian publication "European Pravda." According to sources, the most likely scenario is that the visit will include a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The main topic of negotiations will be the discussion of further steps in technical talks between Kyiv and Moscow, given efforts to find possible pathways to peace. There will also be a focus on the prospects for continued military support for Ukraine from Germany and European partners, as the current emphasis is not only on diplomatic dialogue but also on strengthening Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. At the same time, it is anticipated that the agenda will include a discussion on a new package of European Union sanctions against Russia. The aim of these measures is to increase economic and political pressure on Moscow, encouraging a change in its aggressive behavior and prompting a return to the negotiation process. According to reports, detailed discussions are planned concerning possible steps to involve Russia in serious diplomatic discussions, including via increased sanctions pressure. Additionally, during Zelensky’s visit, a meeting with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier is scheduled. This will provide an opportunity to exchange official positions on the current situation around Ukraine and discuss Ukraine’s further integration into European structures. Prior to the visit, on May 11, an important meeting of leaders of the so-called “Coalition of the Determined” took place in Kyiv. There, they agreed on intentions to escalate sanction pressure on Moscow in the event that Russia refuses peaceful initiatives and resumes a ceasefire. During this event, Minister Merz, who was in Kyiv at the time, assured Ukrainian partners of continued military support and emphasized close cooperation with European countries, the USA, and allies. Specifically, on May 26, Merz stated that neither the USA, the European Union, France, nor the United Kingdom are imposing restrictions on the range of Ukrainian strikes against targets in Russia, which indicates growing support for Kyiv in its defensive efforts. Thus, Zelensky’s visit to Berlin is not only an official high-level trip but also an important move in the diplomatic game aimed at strengthening Ukraine's position and shaping a joint strategy with Europe in countering Russian aggression. The intense struggle for diplomatic and military dominance continues, where every step is of great significance for the fate of the Ukrainian people and European security as a whole.