Merz Says German Troops Could Counter Russian Attacks in Ukraine

Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that German troops could participate in a coalition to secure a demilitarized zone in Ukraine after a possible peace agreement under rules that would permit them to “retaliate against corresponding Russian incursions and attacks.”

“We are not there yet,” Merz told public broadcaster ZDF in Berlin Tuesday evening. The chancellor expressed optimism that Russian President Vladimir Putin would eventually have to agree to a settlement. “Putin has said ‘nyet’ to many things, at some point he will also have to say ‘yes’ to something when it’s about ending this war,” he said.