Ukraine's peace can't be achieved at the cost of Germany, asserts the country's leader

In an interview with German public broadcaster ZDF, Chancellor Friedrich Merz outlined Germany's stance on the ongoing war in Ukraine. Merz reiterated that Germany is a key backer of Ukraine and supporting Ukraine to defend itself against Russia is an absolute priority.

Merz stated that ending the war in Ukraine quickly at the country's expense is not an option. He further explained that the war could be ended tomorrow if Ukraine surrendered, but such a solution is unacceptable as it would come at the cost of Ukraine's independence.

The Chancellor expressed concern over the escalating risk to Germany due to the war in Ukraine. He stated that the risk to Germany increases with each passing day and the day after tomorrow, another country could also be at risk. The day after that, Germany could be at risk as well.

Merz's position on the possibility of a peace agreement with Russia in the Ukraine crisis is to achieve a resolution through the "economic exhaustion" of Russia. The focus is on securing long-term peace by preventing future Russian aggression via economic and political means rather than military presence. Merz emphasized that Western power interests must stay out of Ukraine.

Despite expressing concern over the prolonged conflict, Merz has not lost hope for a ceasefire but harbors no illusions. He stated that a ceasefire this year is unlikely. The war, according to Merz, could last for a long time.

Since February 2022, Germany has delivered or pledged military support worth around 40 billion euros ($47 billion) to Ukraine. This support is aimed at helping Ukraine defend itself against Russia.

In conclusion, Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that it is not an option for Germany to be at risk due to the war in Ukraine. He reiterated that the risk to another country due to the war in Ukraine increases with each passing day and Germany must continue to support Ukraine in its self-defence against Russia.