Overview
- Speaking to students Monday in Marsberg, the German chancellor said deeper EU integration for Ukraine is a prerequisite to ending Russia’s war.
- Merz said a peace treaty could leave parts of Ukraine under Russian control and would likely require a nationwide referendum in Ukraine.
- He proposed interim steps that let Ukrainian officials attend meetings of the European Council, Parliament, and Commission without voting rights.
- Merz cautioned that Ukraine cannot join the EU while the war continues and called entry targets for 2027 or early 2028 unrealistic, citing required rule‑of‑law and anti‑corruption reforms and the need for unanimous approval by all member states.
- He noted that EU governments have approved a €90 billion loan to cover most of Ukraine’s financing needs through 2027, signaling long‑term support alongside political ties.