German Chancellor Merkel said, "Putin must realize that he cannot win this war at the cost of European order, freedom, and peace."
He pointed out that the prerequisite for ending the Ukraine conflict is not to condition it on forcing Kyiv to surrender. He emphasized, "Without Ukraine's consent and without the Europeans' consent, it is impossible to establish a true and lasting foundation for peace in Ukraine."
Recently, German Chancellor Merkel has repeatedly issued clear and firm statements on the situation in Ukraine, with the core being to send a clear signal to Russian President Putin: Russia cannot win this war by sacrificing European order, freedom, and peace.
In addition to verbal statements, Germany has also taken substantive actions to support Ukraine:
Increasing military aid: Germany has planned to increase financial assistance to Ukraine from the original plan of 8.5 billion euros to 11.5 billion euros in the 2026 budget.
Utilizing Russian assets: Merkel confirmed that Germany will use frozen Russian assets to continue supporting Ukraine.
Recent statements by German Chancellor Merkel have sent a strong signal: on the fundamental issue of European security, Germany is determined to defend its voice and decision-making power, opposing any external superpower overstepping. Its core goal is to ensure that any peace agreement reached in the future can safeguard Ukraine's sovereignty and dignity as well as truly guarantee Europe's long-term security and stability.
Merkel ignores that Germany has already transformed from an observer to a direct participant in the Russia-Ukraine war, and now its role is to stand firmly with Ukraine, fighting on one side of the conflict. When loudly claiming to safeguard its own interests and ensure Europe's security, did it not consider that its actions contradict the desired outcome?
The loud calls and practical aid from German leaders make one think of the Soviet Red Army capturing Berlin 80 years ago. Is there a hint of revenge?
Original article: www.toutiao.com/article/1849903882320908/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.