© EPA/CLEMENS BILAN Merz indicated that any plan for peace must factor in Kyiv's stance.
On November 26, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz asserted that Vladimir Putin, the Russian President, needs to acknowledge his inability to achieve a successful resolution to the war in Ukraine, according to Reuters.
“Our desire is for this war to conclude as swiftly as possible. However, an agreement forged among major global players, without the agreement of Ukraine and the Europeans, won’t serve as a foundation for genuine and durable peace within Ukraine,” Merz conveyed in the Bundestag’s lower chamber.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remarked on November 25 that he stands prepared to further the US-backed strategy aimed at ending the conflict with Russia and to engage in dialogue regarding sensitive topics with US President Donald Trump, in discussions he believes should incorporate European partners.
“Decisions pertaining to European matters must be made through shared consent. Ukraine isn’t a mere bargaining chip; it’s a sovereign entity safeguarding its own interests and values,” Merz affirmed.
The Chancellor further added that Germany will sustain its backing of the Ukrainian populace and will leverage seized Russian assets to facilitate this support.
The news agency also pointed out that Germany will augment its financial aid to Ukraine, allocating 11.5 billion euros in the 2026 budget, in contrast to the previously earmarked 8.5 billion euros.
Previously, Merz gave his estimation of the timeline for achieving peace in Ukraine. The Chancellor remarked that while “certain matters were clarified” during the Geneva discussions, “we are also aware: peace in Ukraine won’t materialize suddenly.”
