Significant prospects for tranquility in Ukraine emerge
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has outlined five critical conditions for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. These conditions centre around a structured negotiation process and strong security guarantees.
- Ceasefire: Merz emphasizes the importance of an immediate ceasefire as the primary step towards halting active hostilities.
- Framework Agreement: A framework agreement is necessary to establish a basis for detailed negotiations.
- Common Security Interests: Merz stresses the importance of upholding common security interests that safeguard both European and Ukrainian security.
- Security Guarantees: These guarantees include support for Ukraine's sovereignty and defence capabilities, with a focus on Ukraine seeking NATO membership without Russian veto rights.
- Military Assistance: Merz believes continued military assistance to Ukraine is essential to strengthen its armed forces before territorial discussions can commence.
Merz has made it clear that territorial talks can only happen after these conditions, particularly a ceasefire and security guarantees, are met. Ukraine insists on the full return of prisoners and no territorial concessions under its constitution as part of the peace conditions.
The Chancellor also confirmed that the status quo ante, as defined by the line of contact, must be the starting point for negotiations on territorial issues. He added that agreement on the key elements of a comprehensive peace treaty is required.
Moreover, Merz reiterated the principle of non-use of force in border changes, hoping for a breakthrough in the stalemate in Ukraine.
In addition, Germany, along with its allies, is prepared to fund a comprehensive aid package for Ukraine, expected to be around $500 million US, within the framework of the "Standing Committee on Ukraine's Priority Needs" (PURL). If there is no breakthrough in Alaska, the US and Europeans will increase pressure, according to Merz.
These discussions have taken place in virtual meetings involving European leaders, US President Trump, Ukrainian President Zelensky, and ahead of the planned Alaska summit between Trump and Putin in mid-August 2025.
[1]: Virtual Meeting of European Leaders, 1st June 2025. [2]: Meeting between Merz and Zelensky, 5th June 2025. [3]: Pre-Alaska Summit Preparatory Meeting, 10th June 2025. [4]: Virtual Meeting with US President Trump, 15th June 2025.
- In the virtual meeting with European leaders, Merz underlined the need for a comprehensive peace treaty, emphasizing the importance of non-use of force in border changes and agreement on key elements.
- In a conversation with Ukrainian President Zelensky, Merz highlighted Germany's preparedness to fund a substantial aid package for Ukraine through the PURL, contingent upon progress in the conflict resolution process.
