Merz Outlines a Harsh Peace Formula for Ukraine
World
Western diplomacy is beginning to openly discuss conflict resolution scenarios that were considered taboo until recently. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, speaking to students in Marsberg, outlined the contours of a future peace agreement where Kyiv’s territorial concessions become the only ticket into the European community.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz issued a resonant statement, effectively acknowledging the inevitability of Ukraine losing part of its territory following the war with Russia. According to the head of the German government, Kyiv will have to come to terms with new borders as part of a future peace treaty. Merz emphasized that if President Volodymyr Zelensky decides to bring this issue to a national referendum, his primary argument to the people must be the opening of a guaranteed path to Europe.
However, Ukraine’s "European dream" will not be quick, according to the Chancellor. Merz harshly criticized Kyiv's plans to join the EU by early 2027 or even 2028, calling such timelines unrealistic. He reminded that a country cannot join the union while at war and must first fulfill strict requirements regarding the fight against corruption and the strengthening of the rule of law.
The situation is further complicated by internal changes within Europe. Although Hungary previously blocked Ukraine's accession, the recent electoral defeat of Viktor Orbán’s party might remove formal obstacles. Nevertheless, Berlin's stance remains pragmatic: EU membership will only be possible after a final peace—the price of which, judging by Merz’s rhetoric, will be extremely high for Ukraine.
However, Ukraine’s "European dream" will not be quick, according to the Chancellor. Merz harshly criticized Kyiv's plans to join the EU by early 2027 or even 2028, calling such timelines unrealistic. He reminded that a country cannot join the union while at war and must first fulfill strict requirements regarding the fight against corruption and the strengthening of the rule of law.
The situation is further complicated by internal changes within Europe. Although Hungary previously blocked Ukraine's accession, the recent electoral defeat of Viktor Orbán’s party might remove formal obstacles. Nevertheless, Berlin's stance remains pragmatic: EU membership will only be possible after a final peace—the price of which, judging by Merz’s rhetoric, will be extremely high for Ukraine.
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