Berlin: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Saturday that resolving the conflict in Ukraine will require agreement from both Ukraine and its European partners, rather than decisions made by larger global powers.
Speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, Merz underscored that the conflict’s trajectory directly affects the security of Europe as a whole.
“Wars cannot be ended by great powers over the heads of the countries involved,” he said, adding that the crisis can only conclude with Ukraine’s “unconditional consent.”
Merz also confirmed that foreign policy advisers from Germany, France and Britain, along with EU representatives, will meet with U.S. and Ukrainian officials on Sunday in Geneva for further consultations.
He emphasized that Ukraine will require credible and lasting security guarantees as part of any settlement.
While noting that there is currently an opportunity to move toward ending the conflict, Merz cautioned that the parties remain far from reaching a mutually acceptable outcome.
