German Chancellor Merz Cautions Against Immediate Breakthrough in Ukraine Peace Talks

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz welcomed updates to US President Donald Trump’s Ukraine peace plan on Monday but warned that a major breakthrough is unlikely this week. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an EU-Africa summit in Angola, Merz said the recent Geneva talks with senior US, European, and Ukrainian officials resulted in a draft paper reflecting common positions among the participants.

“We welcome the fact that these talks took place in Geneva. We also welcome the interim outcome, as some questions could have been clarified. But we also know that peace in Ukraine won’t happen overnight,” Merz said. He emphasized that European support for Ukraine will continue, noting that Ukraine’s interests are closely aligned with those of Europe.

Merz stressed that Ukraine must not be forced into unilateral territorial concessions and must retain the ability to defend itself effectively. “For this, it needs strong armed forces and reliable security guarantees from its partners,” he said. When asked about reports suggesting the US wants Ukraine to approve the plan by Thursday, Merz clarified that negotiations will continue at the level of heads of state and government and expressed skepticism over whether Russia will participate constructively. “I don’t expect a breakthrough this week,” he added.