Merz: Ukraine’s Allies Must Ensure Russia Cannot Sustain War Economically

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Saturday that he believes Russia will only halt its war against Ukraine once it is no longer able to sustain the conflict for economic or military reasons, as recent diplomatic efforts have failed to make headway.

Speaking at a regional event of his conservative party in North Rhine-Westphalia, Merz remarked:
“All attempts in recent weeks have been met in Moscow with an even more aggressive stance against the people of Ukraine. This will not end until we, together, ensure that Russia can no longer continue this war—at least for economic reasons, and perhaps for military reasons as well.”

Earlier the same day, Russia’s Chief of the General Staff, General Valery Gerasimov, said Russian troops were pressing attacks along almost the entire frontline and claimed to hold the “strategic initiative.” Russia has also intensified air strikes this summer on Ukrainian towns and cities far behind the front lines.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts led by U.S. President Donald Trump—now in their fourth year—have so far failed to bring a resolution. Kyiv and its European partners, including Germany, continue to press for tougher economic sanctions against Moscow.