Speaking after the High-Level European Arctic Summit in Rovaniemi, Finland, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the outcome of the war in Ukraine would directly determine Europe’s security and freedom.
Assessing the possibility of a Russian victory at a joint press conference, Merz said unpredictable and unprecedented consequences could emerge for European countries, including Germany. Merz said he was therefore taking a firm and clear position and would not back down.
Calls for continued support for Ukraine
Merz described providing Ukraine with all possible support to protect peace and freedom in Europe as a “historic duty.” He argued that this support was necessary not only for Kyiv but also for Europe’s security interests.
Merz claimed that Russia was not waging war only against Ukraine, saying that Moscow was carrying out hybrid attacks and influence operations against European countries.
Warning of weeks or months for a decisive period
Responding to a question about growing opposition in Europe to support for Ukraine, Merz said the war had entered a critical phase. He said the most decisive moments in defending Europe’s freedom and peace would probably come within weeks or months.
The German chancellor said criticism of continued military and financial aid to Ukraine was being debated both in Germany and across the European Union. Merz said European governments needed to maintain their resolve until the war ended and that he would do everything he could to explain that continuing support was in Europe’s own interest.