In a powerful address that reverberated across international diplomatic circles, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has issued one of his strongest warnings yet to Moscow, declaring that Vladimir Putin must accept the reality that Russia cannot win the war in Ukraine.
Merz's Stern Warning in Bundestag
The German leader stood before the Bundestag on November 27, 2025, and delivered a message that left no room for ambiguity. Merz explicitly stated that any peace agreement crafted without Europe or Ukraine's participation would be completely unacceptable. His speech marked a significant moment in Germany's evolving stance toward the ongoing conflict.
Chancellor Merz emphasized that only a united transatlantic front could deliver what he described as a genuine and durable end to the hostilities. His words carried particular weight given Germany's crucial role in European politics and its historical relationship with Russia.
Ukraine's Sovereignty At The Core
In perhaps his most resonant statement, Merz reminded lawmakers and the international community that Ukraine is not a pawn in geopolitical games. He stressed that Ukraine remains a sovereign nation whose consent is absolutely essential to any settlement reached.
This declaration serves as a direct pushback against any potential great-power negotiations that might attempt to bypass Kyiv. The German Chancellor's position reinforces the principle that the future of Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukrainian voices at the table.
Context and Implications
The timing of Merz's speech is particularly significant, coming amid leaked communications and shifting global power dynamics. His firm stance signals Germany's commitment to maintaining transatlantic unity in addressing the conflict.
The Chancellor's message underscores Europe's determination to prevent any peace settlement that compromises Ukrainian sovereignty or ignores the will of the Ukrainian people. This position aligns with broader Western efforts to support Ukraine while maintaining pressure on Moscow.
As the conflict continues to evolve, Merz's strong words from the Bundestag highlight the growing consensus among Western leaders that any resolution must respect Ukraine's territorial integrity and political independence. The German position now clearly rejects the notion that major powers can negotiate over the heads of smaller nations.