Merz outlines peacekeeping challenges in Ukraine conflict
Friedrich Merz, the likely successor to Olaf Scholz as Chancellor of Germany, addressed the discussion about deploying peacekeeping forces in Ukraine. These forces would consist of soldiers from Western militaries. Merz stated that German participation in such a project would only be possible with a "consensus with Russia."
In an interview with the weekly "Die Zeit," Merz mentioned that any potential deployment of peacekeeping forces in Ukraine should align with international law.
- If a peace agreement is necessary and if Ukraine needs security guarantees, we can discuss it only with an appropriate mandate under international law, and currently, I do not see that - said the CDU leader.
- I would like such a mandate to be based on consensus with Russia, not on conflict - emphasized Merz.
"I can't imagine." Bad news from Berlin for Ukraine
The politician was asked what kind of security guarantees he envisions—besides Ukraine's membership in NATO—that could lead to a ceasefire in the war with Russia.
- I can't imagine anything today that would move in that direction. We are far from such a ceasefire. This is an issue that must be clarified in the coming weeks, or perhaps months - answered Merz.
