Merz emphasizes: Ceasefire must come first before any negotiations
In recent statements, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz highlighted that any further stages of the negotiation process in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia can only commence after a complete and unconditional ceasefire is achieved.
This underscores that diplomatic efforts should be aimed at immediately stopping the fire before discussing any other issues, such as territorial or political matters.
During a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, held in Berlin prior to recent online meetings with Donald Trump and European leaders, Merz emphasized that upcoming negotiations should be conducted solely under the conditions of peace and stability.
The Chancellor also noted Ukraine’s readiness to discuss territorial questions but stressed the importance of establishing and maintaining a contact line, and that any constitutional changes should be off the table without broad consensus.
Regarding future international talks, he expressed hope that the leaders of the US and Ukraine would follow the correct sequence: first, ceasefire, then other steps to avoid complications and deadlocks in the dialogue.
Merz also announced planned virtual meetings with President Trump and Zelenskyy to discuss the ongoing war.
His main message is that Ukraine must actively participate in any negotiations and resolutions, with the critical condition that all military actions cease before proceeding further.
The Chancellor underscored that progress is only possible with a total ceasefire and the creation of a secure contact line, not through constitutional reforms without wider consultation.
This addresses concerns about the unpredictability of upcoming summits between US and Russian leaders, which have fueled fears of decisions that could adversely affect Ukraine’s security and global stability.