German chancellor says Zelensky should join meeting between Trump and Putin
He made this statement on ARD television, according to Ukrinform.
"We hope and assume that the Ukrainian government and President Zelensky will be involved. In any case, we cannot agree that territorial issues between Russia and America are being discussed, and even more so, resolved over the heads of Europeans and Ukrainians... Europeans do not want and should not remain on the sidelines when it comes to a decisive strategic issue for the future of Europe,“ the chancellor said, suggesting that the US government ”sees it the same way."
Merz also expressed hope that the summit would result in a decision to end the ceasefire in Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine.
The politician recalled that Europeans are constantly seeking a diplomatic solution.
The head of the German government also noted that intensive preparations are underway at the European level together with the US government ahead of the meeting in Alaska, and that consultations are ongoing. He also announced his intention to speak with Donald Trump this weekend.
According to the chancellor, Putin only agrees to negotiations under pressure. Military pressure exists, but it is clearly not enough. However, America has not yet imposed economic sanctions, which would be a powerful tool, believes Merz, who, according to him, has been persuading Trump to take this step for weeks.
“What happens in Alaska on Friday... must have consequences — either in the form of increased pressure on Russia, or Russia will see that it cannot continue this war,” said the German chancellor.
As reported, Donald Trump plans to meet with Vladimir Putin on August 15 in Alaska.
Late on Saturday evening, the leaders of a number of European countries – Germany, France, Finland, Great Britain, Italy, Poland – and the head of the European Commission issued a joint statement emphasizing that Kyiv must receive reliable security guarantees after negotiations in which Ukraine is to participate with the support of its European partners.
Ukrinform photos can be purchased here.
