Merz called the EU's participation in the peace talks a necessary condition

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is convinced that a resolution to the Russian-Ukrainian war is impossible without the direct participation of Europe and Germany at the negotiating table. 

He made this statement during a joint press conference with Volodymyr Zelenskyy. According to the chancellor, the U.S. government recognizes the need to involve European partners in this process.

Merz emphasized that Germany’s participation as the main donor of support to Ukraine starting in 2025 is critically important for shaping future agreements. He explained this position in particular by Berlin’s economic interests in Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction. To achieve these goals, a special Ukraine Recovery Fund has already been established, which the German side plans to actively contribute to.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy supported the chancellor’s position, noting that any decisions regarding ending the war without Europe’s participation are impossible. This joint statement came amid reports of a systemic recession in Russia, which reinforces the need for unified international pressure on the aggressor. Both leaders emphasized that the strategic partnership between the two countries will serve as the foundation for the continent’s future security architecture.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Berlin on April 14.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz officially confirmed support for Kyiv’s European integration aspirations, emphasizing the fundamental importance of this step for the stability of the entire continent.