Merz: Ukraine's war must be ended soon, but not at the cost of its surrender

Kiev and its partners seek to end Russia's war as soon as possible, but not at the cost of the Ukraine surrender.

This is said by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in an interview with ZDF, according to Ukrinform.

I am preparing from the inside to make this war very long. Efforts are being made through intensive diplomatic initiatives to complete the war as soon as possible, but this cannot be done at the cost of completing Ukraine. Because then the state would lose its independence. And then tomorrow it'll be us. This is not an option”, Merz said.

When asked whether a ceasefire could be possible this year, the Chancellor said it gives no hope, but also “has no illusion”.

He explained that wars usually end in one of two ways: either through a military defeat on one side or through economic and military fatigue.

And according to Merz, this isn't happening on either side at the moment, it reports Telegragraphy, it broadcasts. Periscope.

He noted that intensive diplomatic initiatives are currently under way to end the war as soon as possible, initiatives that have not occurred in the last three and a half years.

He cited his very active contacts with European leaders, including the presidents of France and the United States, and stressed the importance of the US stance alongside European allies in seeking a solution.

Merz stressed that the absolute priority is supporting Ukraine's defence capabilities.

Regarding security guarantees, such as the deployment of ground troops in case of a ceasefire, he said this is currently not in question among the allies.

No one is talking about land troops in Ukraine at this point... Priority number one is the support of the Ukrainian Army so that they can defend their country in the long-term” plan, he said, adding that Allies are discussing possible security guarantees after reaching a ceasefire.

He also noted that if the Bundeswehr forces were deployed at a moment, for example, to protect Ukrainian airspace after the end of the hostilities, it would require a mandate from Bundestag.

Merz stressed that any peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia would require Ukraine, with the support of its allies, to preserve its independence, freedom and status unannounced.