Merz outlines conditions for German peacekeepers in Ukraine
Friedrich Merz, considered the most likely successor to Olaf Scholz as Chancellor of Germany, spoke about the possibility of deploying peacekeeping forces in Ukraine. These forces would consist of soldiers from Western armies. Merz stated that German participation in such a project would only be viable if there were a "consensus with Russia."
In an interview with the weekly "Die Zeit," Merz noted that any potential deployment of peacekeeping forces in Ukraine should comply with international law.
- If a peace agreement is necessary and Ukraine requires security guarantees, then we can only discuss it if there is an appropriate mandate under international law. At the moment, I do not see that - said the CDU leader.
- I would like such a mandate to be based on consensus with Russia, not on conflict - emphasized Merz.
"I can't imagine:" Bad news from Berlin for Ukraine
The politician was asked about the type of security guarantees he envisions - aside from Ukraine's potential NATO membership - that could facilitate a ceasefire in the conflict with Russia.
- I can't imagine anything today that would lead in that direction. We are far from such a ceasefire. This is an issue that needs to be clarified in the coming weeks, or perhaps months - replied Merz.
