Merz urges Putin to face reality; Outlines strict migrant policy
Friedrich Merz, candidate for Chancellor of Germany, emphasizes that Vladimir Putin must understand the lack of chances for a military victory, as he stated in an interview with the newspaper "Handelsblatt." He also addressed the deportation of migrants from Germany.
What do you need to know?
- Friedrich Merz highlighted in an interview with "Handelsblatt" that the key to ending the war in Ukraine lies in the hands of Vladimir Putin.
- Merz is not revealing specifics of his policy towards Ukraine, emphasizing the necessity for consultation with European partners.
- The new German government, with Merz at the helm, is expected to commence work on May 6, following the acceptance of the coalition agreement by party bodies.
What are Merz's plans regarding Ukraine?
Friedrich Merz emphasized in an interview with "Handelsblatt" that Vladimir Putin must understand "there are no chances for a military victory." Merz noted that the key to ending the war lies with the Russian president. He is withholding details of his policy toward Ukraine, emphasizing that he will first consult with European partners.
Will the Bundeswehr participate in a peacekeeping mission?
Merz declined to take a clear stance on the potential involvement of the Bundeswehr in a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, stating, "I will neither publicly confirm nor categorically deny." He argued that a direct meeting with Putin makes sense only if there is a prospect of achieving progress and provided there is agreement on the European stage.
Merz also announced that his government would quickly enhance protection of German borders and increase the number of people deported from the country. Regarding the deportation of migrants from the border, the future chancellor intends to seek European solutions by conducting discussions with neighboring countries such as Denmark, the Netherlands, and Italy.
