German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Monday called on Russia to “come to the table” for negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. The comments came after US, European, and Ukrainian officials met in Geneva to discuss a revised peace framework. Washington and Kyiv described the meetings as “constructive,” saying negotiators had drafted an updated plan.
Speaking at an international summit in Angola, Merz stressed th at the process would be long and that a breakthrough should not be expected this week. He highlighted that Europe must consent to any peace plan affecting European interests and sovereignty.
Read more: Ukraine would give Russia chunk of territory under 28-point US plan
Merz added that Ukraine should not be forced to make unilateral territorial concessions and must retain the ability to defend itself. He called for strong armed forces and reliable security guarantees from European and international partners to achieve this.
A Berlin government spokesman welcomed the “progress” but declined to comment on the details or any proposals emerging from the Geneva meetings. The talks follow criticism of a prior US proposal for allegedly accepting some of Russia’s hardline demands.
Read more: Trump accuses Ukraine of ingratitude as officials meet in Geneva
Merk said that if Russia engages constructively at the negotiating table, “every effort will have been worthwhile,” emphasizing Europe’s central role in supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.