German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Thursday that talks on a ceasefire in Ukraine are in their early stages and could last months, despite increased diplomatic pressure in recent weeks, Politico quoted him as saying.
"We are under no illusions. There is no quick solution", Merz said at a press conference in Vilnius during the opening of the new permanent German brigade in Lithuania. According to him, the process is just beginning and could drag on for weeks, even months.
The chancellor stressed that Germany will continue its military support for Ukraine, while actively seeking a diplomatic solution. "We are not missing any opportunity for a diplomatic breakthrough, but we know that it will not come quickly," he added.
Merz's statement comes after the latest round of indirect talks between Kiev and Moscow, brokered by Turkey, which have led to limited progress, including a 1,000-for-1,000 prisoner swap. Ukraine is pushing for an immediate ceasefire, while Russia is setting conditions that Kiev has categorically rejected.
Merz noted that Western unity remains key and coordination with EU and US partners is at the heart of Germany's strategy. He said his talks with US lawmakers have shown strong support for continued transatlantic cooperation. "It is in America's interest to move forward together," the chancellor said.
His statement comes days after US President Donald Trump held a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump urged allies to support a negotiated solution and expressed dissatisfaction with what he said was a delay in the process.