Germany’s new chancellor, , said in Paris that he plans to visit Ukraine “in the coming weeks,” adding that the visit is currently being coordinated.
Speaking at a press conference alongside French President Emmanuel Macron. Merz said he wants to “make every possible contribution from the European Union to ensure that there is a lasting ceasefire there beyond the coming weekend and that there can then also be a peace agreement with Russia.”
According to Merz, it is important that the United States continues to be involved in this process “and also in a subsequent security guarantee for Ukraine” and that “the Americans remain on board,” despite President Donald Trump’s recent concessions to Russia.
Germany’s newly sworn-in chancellor added that a permanent ceasefire can be agreed soon for Ukraine, but held back on making any commitments for Ukraine’s security.
“I’m really hoping that there will be a chance beyond the weekend to come to a ceasefire and then also to peace negotiations that could lead to a corresponding agreement,” Merz told reporters in Paris.
Only once there is an agreement can Germany give details on security guarantees “because we simply don’t know the conditions yet”, he added.
Merz also said all members of the European Union must increase their defense spending to fill gaps in the bloc’s capabilities and ensure continued support for Ukraine.
“Only in this way can we gradually close our capability gaps and collectively support Ukraine,” Merz said.
Meanwhile, Macron said France and Germany would continue working with partners on a ceasefire in Ukraine.
After France, Merz is scheduled to stop in Poland on his first foreign trip as chancellor.
The post Germany’s Merz plans to visit Ukraine in the coming weeks appeared first on Deutsche Welle.
