German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to introduce tighter travel restrictions on young men leaving the country to avoid military service, DPA reports, BTA reports.
After meeting with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides in Berlin, Merz said he had asked Zelensky to ensure that young Ukrainians would stay in their country, where they were needed most. “We need everyone who can help, including through military service”, the chancellor stressed.
According to him, a significant number of Ukrainians aged between 18 and 24 are heading to Germany, as compulsory military service in Ukraine begins at 25. After Zelensky eased travel restrictions in August, the number of young men arriving in Germany has increased significantly.
Merz said he had discussed the issue in depth with Zelensky during a phone call, including the need for an investigation into the corruption scandal in Kiev. He stressed that he had insisted on swift action and a comprehensive review of institutions to strengthen the fight against corruption.
The German government said Zelensky had informed Merz about the ongoing investigations and promised full transparency as well as continued support for independent anti-corruption bodies.
The chancellor reiterated the importance of continued financial and, if necessary, military support for Ukraine, noting that this was in the interests of both Germany and the European Union.
Regarding the frozen Russian assets in Belgium, Merz said that Germany was ready to provide a proportionate share of the necessary guarantees. Ukrainian president demands release of up to 160 billion euros in frozen funds to finance loan for Ukraine.