Without Washington's money: Merz states Europe will continue supporting Ukraine
Photo source: Office of the President of Ukraine
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Russia seeks not only to defeat Ukraine but also to destabilize Europe's political order and undermine democracy. He also emphasized that European countries continue funding Ukrainian defense without US aid, although replacing American military capabilities in the near future will be difficult.
According to Rubryka, Bloomberg reports that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that European societies are failing to take the threat posed by Russia seriously enough.
The chancellor warned against complacency and emphasized that the Kremlin's goals extend beyond capturing Ukrainian territories.
In his view, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin seeks to weaken European democracy and destabilize the continent's political system.
Merz noted that even in Germany, not everyone realizes the scale of this threat. He emphasized that Russia opposes not only Ukraine but also democratic principles, open societies, and European integration.
Germany continues funding Ukraine's defense
Separately, the chancellor stated that Germany, alongside other European allies and partners outside the US, continues funding Ukrainian defense without American involvement in paying for military needs and supplying necessary equipment.
The chancellor admitted that such support places a significant strain on European budgets.
"This is indeed a heavy burden on our budgets, this is indeed an important matter for the European Union," he said.
At the same time, Germany intends to continue helping Ukraine.
"But we are doing this and trying to continue doing so until this terrible war ends," Merz added.
Merz attempts to convince Trump to support Europe
According to Bloomberg, European leaders are seeking ways to ease tensions in relations with Washington. The situation escalated against the backdrop of US President Donald Trump's stance, which the publication assesses as effectively siding with Moscow.
In particular, Washington demands that Ukraine stop strikes on Russian oil refineries. At the same time, President Volodymyr Zelenskyi accused Trump of pressuring Kyiv to force Ukraine into making concessions to the Kremlin.
Merz shared that during meetings with the US president, he attempts to explain to him why supporting Ukraine and maintaining European stability align with American interests.
"I try to convince Donald Trump every time I meet with him that this should be in his own interest," the German chancellor said.
The publication emphasized that European leaders are preparing for the possibility of continuing to provide support to Ukraine without Washington's participation. They advocate for maintaining sanctions against Russia and insist that Kyiv should not cede territory as part of a peaceful settlement.
At the same time, European countries acknowledge that they cannot fully replace American air defense systems and intelligence-sharing capabilities at this time.
Against the backdrop of these challenges, European governments are working to reform the defense sector to strengthen their own capabilities and reduce reliance on the US within NATO.
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