German chancellor: Prepare for prolonged war in Ukraine

• The German Chancellor forecasts a drawn-out conflict in Ukraine.
• Russia has not engaged with mediation offers, making it challenging to conclude the war.
• Relaxing restrictions on arms supplies to Ukraine bolsters its defensive capabilities.

During a press conference with the Prime Minister of Finland, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed concerns that the war in Ukraine might persist for a long time. He remarked that wars typically conclude due to economic or military exhaustion, but that point appears to be distant in this particular case.

Recent efforts to secure a ceasefire in Ukraine have been unsuccessful. Russia has not responded to mediation proposals, including those from the Vatican. The German Chancellor stressed that preparing for a protracted conflict might be necessary.

We may have to prepare for a longer duration [of the war - ed.] – evaluated Merz, quoted by the DPA.

The German Chancellor discussed lifting restrictions on arms supplies to Ukraine. Ukraine is now permitted to use these weapons within Russian territory as well, which, according to the German politician, enhances its defensive prospects. This decision aims to strengthen Kyiv's position in the conflict.

Chancellor Merz evaluated Russia's decision to attack Ukraine as a miscalculation. Rather than weakening the European Union and NATO, the war has instead led to their reinforcement. Finland and Sweden joining NATO are emblematic of Western solidarity.

During his visit to Finland, the German Chancellor underscored the importance of collaboration with Nordic countries. Finland's border with Russia "is simultaneously the external border of the EU and Germany". He also highlighted the escalating hybrid threat from Russia and Belarus, which is emerging not only at the Finnish border but also at the borders of other frontline countries.