German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that a potential peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia might involve territorial concessions. Speaking to students at the Carolus-Magnus Gymnasium in Marsberg, he also described Ukraine’s rapid accession to the EU as unrealistic. The head of the German government emphasized that Kyiv must first meet strict membership criteria.
Reuters reported that Merz envisions a multi-stage process for ending the full-scale war.
This process includes a ceasefire followed by a formal peace treaty. According to the Chancellor, such an agreement could result in some Ukrainian territories no longer remaining under Kyiv’s control. He noted that any such decision would require significant public support within Ukraine.
“At some point, Ukraine will sign a ceasefire agreement; at some point, hopefully, a peace treaty with Russia. And then it may happen that part of the territory of Ukraine will no longer be Ukrainian,” Merz said.
Ukraine’s accession to the EU
The German leader suggested that European integration could serve as a vital incentive for the Ukrainian public to accept difficult realities. He argued that President Zelenskyy would need to demonstrate a clear path to Europe to gain support in a potential referendum. However, Merz warned against expecting membership in the near future.
“Zelenskyy had the idea of joining the EU on January 1, 2027. That won’t work. Even January 1, 2028, is unrealistic,” the Chancellor stated.
Merz highlighted that Ukraine must fulfill requirements regarding the rule of law and anti-corruption efforts before joining the bloc. Instead of immediate membership, he proposed “intermediate steps,” such as observer status in EU institutions. European leaders discussed this proposal during last week’s summit in Cyprus.
Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported that the EU approves €90 billion for Ukraine and prepares the 20th sanctions package against Russia.
