German leader says peace cannot come at Ukraine's expense

[BumRushDaShow]

Source: AP

Updated 9:27 PM EDT, August 31, 2025


German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Sunday that the war in Ukraine could still last for a long time and ending it quickly at the country’s expense was not an option.

In an interview with German public broadcaster ZDF, Merz, when asked whether a ceasefire might be possible this year, said he hasn’t lost hope but “harbors no illusions,” and emphasized that supporting the country to defend itself against Russia was an “absolute priority.”

“We are trying to end it as quickly as possible. But certainly not at the price of Ukraine’s capitulation. You could end the war tomorrow if Ukraine surrendered and lost its independence,” Merz said.

“Then the next country would be at risk the day after tomorrow. And the day after that, it would be us. That is not an option,” the chancellor said.

Read more: https://apnews.com/article/germany-russia-ukraine-merz-e3a9e0651d4168a7623ae5fac6de10ba

[JustAnotherGen]

1. He's right

Ukraine in particular - we would be looking at ethnic cleansing not seen since the Holodor.

Remember - the Russkies have already kidnapped and trafficked Ukrainian children for reeducation.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jun/27/russia-ukrainian-children-abduction-war-crime

I have two innocent teenage nieces in Freiburg Germany. Parents are both Italian immigrants. That won't protect them if Russia is allowed to take over Europe.

We ALL know what the Russians did to German girls at the end of WW2.

It's not going to be Giada or Illariya.

[CBHagman]

2. Bumping for visibility.

I am glad Merz is being so frank.

[JustAnotherGen]

3. Another bump

Ukrainian lives matter.

[FemDemERA]

5. K & R

Wish we had an Ukraine 🇺🇦 flag smilie.

[republianmushroom]

4. Agree

[Bayard]

6. Chancellor Merz is an honest and smart man