Germany's Merz: Europe won't be a 'pawn' in Ukraine peace talks

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has issued a firm warning against excluding European nations from diplomatic efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict. Addressing the German parliament, Merz emphasized that while Europeans desire a swift end to the war, a lasting peace cannot be established by great powers like the US and Russia negotiating over Europe's head. This stance highlights a European push for strategic autonomy, a concept also relevant to Türkiye's foreign policy in its region.

Asserting European Sovereignty

Merz explicitly rejected any notion of Europe being a passive player in geopolitical negotiations. "Europe is not a pawn, but a sovereign actor pursuing its own interests and values," he stated. He laid down a clear principle for transatlantic relations, declaring, "European affairs can only be decided in agreement with Europe," signaling that the continent demands an equal seat at the table for any settlement affecting its security.

The Conditions for a Lasting Peace

The Chancellor outlined that a durable peace agreement must have the consent of both Ukraine and European nations. He argued that a deal negotiated without this dual approval would be fundamentally flawed and unstable. Placing the onus for ending the conflict squarely on Moscow, Merz concluded that the war could end immediately "if Russia ceases its illegal war, withdraws its troops from foreign territory."

A Defining Moment for Alliances

The speech framed the current situation as a critical juncture for Ukraine, Europe, and its alliance with the United States. By publicly stating this position, Merz is reinforcing Germany's leadership role within Europe and defining the continent's conditions for supporting a future peace process, ensuring its security interests are not compromised by bilateral talks between other global powers.