German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, after meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House on March 3, said that any agreements regarding Ukraine concluded without the participation of European countries would not be acceptable.
During briefing Following the negotiations, Merz emphasized that Europe should be a full-fledged party to the peace process between Ukraine and Russia, since it is its support that will ensure the legitimacy and durability of any agreement.
"There will be no agreement without the participation of the Europeans," — the Chancellor emphasized, adding that the position of the EU countries must be taken into account on a par with the diplomatic efforts of the United States.
Separately, Merz stated the need to increase pressure on Moscow. According to him, Russia is deliberately delaying the process and thus acting contrary to Washington's desire for a settlement.
"Russia is stalling and, in doing so, is acting against the will of the American president. Today I called for increased pressure on Moscow," — he noted.
The Chancellor also emphasized that Europe's contribution to Ukraine's security, its reconstruction, and further European integration is a key element of a stable peace.
"Trump knows that only a peace that Europe supports and legitimizes can be truly lasting. He also knows that Europe's contribution to Ukraine's security, reconstruction, and European integration will be simply indispensable for this peace," — Merz noted.
