Aug 18, 07:14 PM

Germany’s Merz Insists Ukraine Talks Must Follow Ceasefire

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the first round of talks in Washington on the war in Ukraine had been “useful,” but warned that further negotiations would be impossible without an immediate halt in hostilities. Speaking alongside U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and several European leaders, Merz stressed that all participants shared a desire for a ceasefire and urged renewed pressure on Moscow. “I can’t imagine the next meeting would take place without a ceasefire,” Merz told reporters after the White House session, adding that the parties now face “more difficult” steps if the fighting continues. His remarks contrast with Trump’s earlier suggestion that a formal ceasefire is not a pre-condition for peace talks, underscoring divisions over how to move forward. The Washington gathering brought together Trump, Zelensky and leaders from France, Germany, Italy and other European nations to explore options for ending the 41-month-old conflict. While no joint statement was issued, Merz’s comments signal a firm European position that an immediate cessation of hostilities is essential before any follow-up meeting or broader settlement can be contemplated.

#Friedrich Merz #Washington #Ukraine #Donald Trump #Ukrainian #Volodymyr Zelensky #European #Merz #Moscow #White House #Trump #Zelensky #France #Germany #Italy

Written with ChatGPT .

Germany’s Merz Insists Ukraine Talks Must Follow Ceasefire

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