Merz linking security guarantees for Ukraine to long-term ceasefire

He made the remarks to journalists after his meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, a Ukrinform correspondent reports.

“Without a lasting ceasefire and a peace agreement with Russia, we cannot provide information about security guarantees, because we still don’t know the conditions,” Merz said.

He emphasized the importance of the United States remaining involved in the process and in ensuring Ukraine’s continued security.

The German Chancellor said European partners must do everything they can to achieve a lasting ceasefire and a peace deal so that the war ends for good, not just for a weekend or a few days.

According to Merz, everything now depends on whether Russia accepts the U.S. and EU proposal for real peace talks over the coming weekend.

“I believe the Ukrainian side is ready, but the decision on whether this war can end must be made in Moscow. I hope that after this weekend, we will have a real opportunity to achieve a ceasefire and peace negotiations that lead to such an agreement,” he said.

Merz also confirmed that he plans to visit Ukraine soon.

“Indeed, I plan to visit Ukraine in the coming weeks. Consultations are currently underway to prepare for this visit,” he noted, without specifying the date.

As previously reported, Friedrich Merz is on his first foreign tour since taking office. Paris was his first stop, followed by a visit to Warsaw later the same day.

Photo: Die Zeit