Friedrich Merz, the Chancellor of Germany, announced on Tuesday alongside Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, in Berlin that he has seen no signs of Russia's seriousness in negotiations for a ceasefire in Ukraine.
The Necessity of European Involvement in Peace
Merz and Zelensky emphasized the importance of European participation in shaping any sustainable peace. Germany expects European representatives to participate next week in U.S.-led negotiations in Abu Dhabi with Ukraine and Russia, although they likely will not have a seat at the negotiating table.
Read more: The European Commission urged member states to stop the law restricting access to social networks
Merz regarding the Abu Dhabi negotiations said: "It is important that Russia ultimately and seriously participates in the ceasefire and peace agreement negotiations. So far, I have not seen such a thing." Zelensky also expressed hope that these negotiations, which mark the first trilateral meeting since February, could pave the way for a direct meeting between him and Vladimir Putin.
Russian Attacks and Humanitarian Situation
Zelensky also called for a halt to attacks on energy infrastructure and for a secure passage for grain shipments through the Black Sea, referencing prisoner exchanges. He emphasized that a ceasefire alone cannot ensure sustainable peace and that Ukraine needs security guarantees from Europe and the United States.
Merz also referred to recent Russian airstrikes on Ukrainian civilians, stating: "Russia is exacerbating the global food crisis, which harms the poorest countries." Meanwhile, Zelensky thanked Merz for Germany's assistance in protecting Ukraine's skies and supporting energy infrastructure.
Furthermore, Zelensky reported on Ukraine's urgent need for more air defense equipment, including Patriot missiles. In October, he had informed European Union leaders that Ukraine requires an additional 70 billion euros in aid from European governments next year.
This meeting coincides with the Berlin Security Conference, which brings together European defense officials and experts. Police announced that about 3,400 additional officers have been deployed to secure this conference and meetings, and security in various areas has been heavily reinforced.
Read more: Angela Merkel called for the election of the first female president of Germany · The European Commission is hosting reconstruction talks for Ukraine with the United States and the United Kingdom
