The meeting between Zelensky and Trump sent a serious signal to European partners, believes Friedrich Merz, Chancellor of Germany and leader of the CDU. During a public dialogue, Merz noted that the visit of the President of Ukraine to the USA had its peculiarities that could help Europe better support Ukraine.
According to the politician, this meeting should motivate European states to support Ukraine in all areas, including military. Merz emphasized that the war in eastern Ukraine can only end when Kyiv has a sufficient level of military strength and readiness to resist.
Support for Ukraine and the threat from Russia
Merz also warned that Putin is trying to influence the modern world order and remains dangerous for Europe. In this regard, the Chancellor called on European partners not to reduce assistance to Ukraine, as capitulation cannot be an option due to the threat posed by Russia to the entire region.
'We must continue to support Ukraine on financial, political, and military levels. Europe must stand up for the independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine, otherwise, Russia may become a threat to all of us,' the Chancellor emphasized.
Zelensky's reaction to Trump's call
We should also recall how Zelensky responded to Trump's call for Russia and Ukraine to 'stop where they are.'
In his response to this call, the Ukrainian President emphasized his readiness for peace but stressed the importance of recognizing and preserving Ukraine's territorial boundaries. Thus, the Ukrainian side demonstrated its readiness for constructive communication.