German Chancellor has a message for Putin before meeting with Trump

Merz said the meeting between Trump and Putin represents a “opportunity” for peace and called on the Russian dictator to give up all preconditions for a ceasefire and then meet with Ukrainian counterpart Voldymyr Zelensky.

The goal must be a summit attended by President Zelensky. There a truce agreement must be reached. Ukraine needs solid security guarantees. Territorial issues can only be solved with Ukrainian consent”, the German leader said, reports the ten.

The Kremlin has earlier demanded that Kiev hand over large territories in exchange for the end of the war, which began when Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

European leaders are tense before Trump's meeting with Putin. Although Trump has recently signaled support for Ukraine, Europe fears Putin, a former KGB agent, will be able to return the American president to see the war under his terms.

President Trump can now take an important step towards peace. He deserves thanks for this initiative and for close co-ordination during the last few days”, Merz said.

Otherwise, Trump and Putin are expected to meet tonight in Alaska first at 2100, at our local time.