A cessation of hostilities could occur within the coming days, as per Merz's belief.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz expresses optimism for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine within the next couple of days. This comes after Russia's unilateral three-day ceasefire, which began Wednesday night.
During his visit to Brussels, Merz expressed hope that an agreement for a 30-day ceasefire could be reached this weekend, stating, "I've got my fingers crossed for an agreement this weekend for a ceasefire in Ukraine."
Merz emphasized that further sanctions would be imposed if peace talks fail to materialize. The ball now lies in Moscow's court, he added.
The U.S. has also proposed a 30-day ceasefire, an idea that has been backed by French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Merz stated that a joint statement has been drafted, mirroring the U.S. proposal, and they are eagerly awaiting Russia's response.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced a meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing" in Kyiv on Saturday. This group, consisting of around 30 states led by France and Britain, including Germany, is working on plans to support Ukraine following a potential ceasefire. Secretary Zelenskyy did not disclose the exact attendees, but German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has hinted at a future visit to Ukraine.
Political tensions remain high as both sides navigate the complexities of the ceasefire negotiations. The ongoing dialogue is seen as crucial in reaching an agreement, with former U.S. President Donald Trump continuing to pressure both sides, particularly Russia, to accept the proposed ceasefire. Trump's stance is that any violations will lead to stricter sanctions.
While specific details on Germany's direct involvement in these latest negotiations are scarce, Trump's statements suggest ongoing discussions with European leaders, including Germany, are vital in influencing peace process outcomes.
As the situation continues to evolve, discussions focus on achieving a sustainable peace process, with international actors such as the U.S. and European leaders, including Germany, working diligently to facilitate negotiations.
- Friedrich Merz
- Volodymyr Zelenskyy
- Ukraine
- Donald Trump
- Russia
- Friedrich Merz, during his visit to Brussels, expressed hope that an agreement for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine could be reached this weekend.
- Current negotiations for a ceasefire in Ukraine involve numerous international actors, such as the United States, France, Britain, Poland, and Germany, with Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz specifically mentioning a future visit to Ukraine.
- Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced a meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing" in Kyiv on Saturday, which includes Germany and is working on plans to support Ukraine following a potential ceasefire.
- Former U.S. President Donald Trump continues to pressure both sides, particularly Russia, to accept the proposed 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, stating that any violations will lead to stricter sanctions.
