Economic warfare by Russia should cease, asserts Germany's Merz

In recent days, missile and drone attacks against Ukraine have intensified, raising concerns about the escalating conflict.

The announced meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, brokered by US President Donald Trump, has been cancelled. The cancellation was effectively communicated by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who stated that such a meeting would not happen soon, contrasting earlier indications by Trump.

Russia, however, considers a meeting only possible at the end of negotiations, accusing Ukraine and its allies of delay tactics. Merz emphasized the importance of European unity in addressing the conflict in Ukraine.

The cancelled meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy has sparked a series of discussions among global leaders. Merz, along with French President Emmanuel Macron, highlighted that Russia has shown no desire for a peaceful solution in Ukraine.

The discussions have also emphasized the need for a response to Russia's actions in Ukraine. Merz stated that foreign and European policy is inseparable from Germany's domestic security, and suggested that a united Europe has the potential to assert its interests, defend freedom, and ensure security.

These discussions occurred in Toulon, France. Merz's renewed leadership in defense policy and NATO has been strengthened by decisions to raise Germany's defense spending to 3.5% and invest an additional 1.5% in defense infrastructure.

Merz has held discussions with EU leaders, Zelenskyy, and Trump regarding the conflict, although it is not clear if these discussions will lead to direct meetings between the leaders of Russia and Ukraine.

Macron and Merz have also urged US President Trump to respond to the cancelled Putin-Zelenskyy meeting. As the situation in Ukraine continues to unfold, the international community will be watching closely for any developments in the diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.