German chancellor warns diplomacy with Russia is failing as attacks escalate

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared Friday that diplomatic efforts with Russia are "not working at the moment," calling for greater focus on defending Ukraine as Moscow continues its military campaign. Speaking at a political event in Volkmarsen, Merz expressed openness to dialogue but insisted on a fundamental precondition.

Precondition for Talks

"I myself, along with many others, am open to any form of dialogue, including talks with the Russian leadership. I have only one precondition: If we talk, at least the weapons must be silent," Merz said. He argued that Russian President Vladimir Putin's response to diplomacy consists of attacks on children's hospitals, nursing homes, civilian infrastructure, and energy infrastructure. "This shows that diplomacy cannot succeed at the moment," he concluded.

Defense Imperative

"We must defend ourselves and we must protect Ukraine against aggression. That is the reality we live in today. Unfortunately, there is no other way," Merz added, framing the conflict as an existential threat to European security. The chancellor has repeatedly characterized Russia's war on Ukraine as "a threat to freedom and security" throughout Europe, positioning continued military support for Kyiv as essential to continental stability.

Rejection of False Equivalence

Merz's remarks reject any notion of moral equivalence between Russian aggression and Ukrainian resistance, emphasizing that dialogue cannot proceed while civilians remain targets. His stance reflects growing frustration in Western capitals that Moscow shows no willingness to negotiate in good faith, even as Ukrainian forces continue to defend territory and international diplomatic efforts persist through various channels.