On Wednesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to visit Berlin for a pivotal meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, marking their third discussion in a mere three weeks. This intensified dialogue signifies Merz’s commitment to positioning Germany as a leading force among European allies in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, particularly as U.S. support for NATO experiences fluctuations.
Zelensky's scheduled discussions at the Chancellery will not only include a joint news conference with Merz but also a subsequent meeting with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. In anticipation of the visit, security measures are being enacted across central Berlin, much like preceding visits by the Ukrainian leader.
Merz's approach represents a departure from the previous administration under Olaf Scholz, which maintained a more cautious stance towards Ukraine. In sharp contrast, Merz made a swift visit to Ukraine alongside French and Polish leaders just days after taking office, underscoring a proactive approach to the crisis.
Key topics during the meetings are expected to revolve around sustaining military support for Ukraine as U.S. aid signals a potential slowdown. Of particular interest to Zelensky is the Taurus long-range missile system developed by Germany and Sweden, which Merz hinted at being open to exporting during his election campaign.
Merz has continued to express unwavering support for Ukraine, advocating for sanctions against Russia to ensure a cease-fire. He emphasized in his first parliamentary address the critical importance of European unity during this "historic moment of decision" for the continent. This proactive stance epitomizes Germany's renewed commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.
Zelensky's scheduled discussions at the Chancellery will not only include a joint news conference with Merz but also a subsequent meeting with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. In anticipation of the visit, security measures are being enacted across central Berlin, much like preceding visits by the Ukrainian leader.
Merz's approach represents a departure from the previous administration under Olaf Scholz, which maintained a more cautious stance towards Ukraine. In sharp contrast, Merz made a swift visit to Ukraine alongside French and Polish leaders just days after taking office, underscoring a proactive approach to the crisis.
Key topics during the meetings are expected to revolve around sustaining military support for Ukraine as U.S. aid signals a potential slowdown. Of particular interest to Zelensky is the Taurus long-range missile system developed by Germany and Sweden, which Merz hinted at being open to exporting during his election campaign.
Merz has continued to express unwavering support for Ukraine, advocating for sanctions against Russia to ensure a cease-fire. He emphasized in his first parliamentary address the critical importance of European unity during this "historic moment of decision" for the continent. This proactive stance epitomizes Germany's renewed commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.
