German chancellor warns of prolonged Ukraine war

    
• The German Chancellor predicts a prolonged conflict in Ukraine.
• Russia has not responded to mediation offers, complicating efforts to end the war.
• Removing restrictions on arms supplies to Ukraine increases its chances of defense.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, during a press conference with the Prime Minister of Finland, expressed concerns that the war in Ukraine might persist for an extended period. He noted that wars typically conclude due to economic or military exhaustion, but in this scenario, that is still a distant prospect.

Recent attempts to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine have not yielded results. Russia has not responded to mediation offers, including those from the Vatican. The German Chancellor emphasized that it might be necessary to prepare for a protracted conflict.

We may have to prepare for a longer duration [of the war - ed.] – evaluated Merz, quoted by the DPA.

The German Chancellor addressed the lifting of restrictions on arms supplies to Ukraine. Now, Ukraine is permitted to use these weapons on Russian territory as well, which, according to the German politician, increases its chances of defense. This decision aims to strengthen Kyiv's position in the conflict.

The German Chancellor assessed that Russia made a mistake by attacking Ukraine. Instead of weakening the European Union and NATO, the war has contributed to their strengthening. Finland and Sweden joining NATO is evidence of Western unity.

During his visit to Finland, the German Chancellor emphasized the importance of cooperation with Nordic countries. Finland's border with Russia is "simultaneously the external border of the EU and Germany". He also pointed out the growing hybrid threat from Russia and Belarus, emerging not only on Finland's border but also on the borders of other frontline countries.