Chancellor Merz Foresees Prolonged Ukraine Conflict

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has acknowledged the likelihood of a prolonged conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing that efforts for peace through dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin may be futile. Merz argues that Putin interprets offers of negotiation as signs of weakness, a sentiment echoed after even the Vatican's mediation attempts were ignored by Russia. This perspective has prompted Merz to advocate for increased military support to Ukraine, highlighting recent visits to Kiev alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.

The ongoing war has also influenced the strategies of Western nations, with Germany, the UK, France, and the US lifting range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine. This decision allows for the use of long-range missiles such as ATACMS and Storm Shadow, which Russia claims undermines peace efforts. In response, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has criticized these moves, while Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov warned of escalating tensions if Ukraine strikes deeper into Russian territory.

Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump has expressed disillusionment with Putin, condemning his recent military actions in Ukraine. Despite Trump's sharp criticism, he has yet to approve further US military aid to Ukraine, raising questions about his future steps.

As the conflict drags on, Merz remains a staunch supporter of Ukraine, differing from his predecessor Olaf Scholz. The German Chancellor's recent visit to Finland underscores a shift towards a more assertive European stance against Russian aggression, calling for a united front in the face of ongoing challenges.