German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that Ukraine may have to accept territorial concessions for peace with Russia.

The German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Ukraine may have to accept territorial concessions as part of a potential peace agreement with Russia, emphasizing that this could influence the prospects for joining the European Union. In a speech at the Carolus-Magnus-Gymnasium, Merz mentioned that, in the context of signing a ceasefire agreement, certain parts of Ukrainian territory may no longer be under Ukrainian sovereignty.

He suggested that President Zelensky should communicate this to the citizens, while at the same time providing an optimistic vision for integration into Europe. Merz warned that Ukraine's rapid accession to the EU is not realistic, given the ongoing war and the need to meet strict accession criteria.

He proposed an observer status for Ukraine in European institutions and gradual integration into European political structures, depending on progress in necessary reforms. Merz also mentioned the difficulties related to Ukraine's access to the community market, suggesting an initial partial access.

In contrast, Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine deserves full membership in the EU, rejecting territorial concessions and demanding validation of these through a referendum. Russian-Ukrainian negotiations remain stalled, with Russia demanding the cession of the entire Donbas, a condition that Zelensky firmly rejects.