Merz urges Putin to grasp the futility of military triumph
Friedrich Merz, candidate for Chancellor of Germany, stressed that Vladimir Putin must understand the slim chance of a military victory. In an interview with the newspaper Handelsblatt, he also addressed the deportation of migrants from Germany.
What do you need to know?
- Friedrich Merz pointed out in an interview with Handelsblatt that Vladimir Putin holds the key to ending the war in Ukraine.
- Merz has not disclosed the details of his policy towards Ukraine, underscoring the need for consultation with European partners.
- With Merz at the helm, the new German government is expected to begin work on 6th May, after party bodies accept the coalition agreement.
What are Merz's plans regarding Ukraine?
Friedrich Merz, candidate for Chancellor of Germany, reiterated in an interview with Handelsblatt that Vladimir Putin must understand that "there are no chances for a military victory." Merz noted the key to ending the war lies with the Russian president. The future chancellor did not wish to reveal details of his policy towards Ukraine, stressing that he would first consult with European partners.
Will the Bundeswehr participate in a peacekeeping mission?
Merz declined to take a definitive stance on the Bundeswehr's potential involvement in a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine. "I will neither publicly confirm nor categorically deny," he said. The German politician argued that meeting directly with Putin is only feasible when there is a prospect of progress, provided there is consensus on the European stage.
Merz also announced that his government will swiftly enhance the protection of German borders and increase deportations. Regarding the deportation of migrants from the border, the future chancellor intends to seek European solutions through discussions with neighbouring countries such as Denmark, the Netherlands, and Italy.
