Putin aims to restore Soviet borders
Merz emphasized that Putin will not stop at Ukraine. According to the chancellor, if Ukraine falls, the aggression will be directed further, and Moscow's ultimate goal — a "fundamental change of borders in Europe" and the restoration of the former Soviet Union.
He drew a direct parallel with history, noting that the current situation is similar to the events of 1938:
Just as the Sudetenland was not enough in 1938, Putin will not stop. This is Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine — and against Europe.
– Friedrich Merz, Chancellor of Germany
Context
Friedrich Merz is one of the leaders of European efforts to support Kyiv, together with French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Officials from the three countries are discussing proposals to end the war in Ukraine ahead of a planned leaders' meeting.
Meanwhile, US special representative Steve Witkoff is expected to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who will also be received by Merz in Berlin on Monday. A 20-point peace plan supported by the United States is currently being developed, which includes possible territorial concessions by Ukraine, including the idea of turning the Donbas into a free-trade zone.
