The focus of international diplomacy has shifted to a new round of contacts between Berlin, Kyiv, and Washington. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed that, together with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, he has sent an appeal to the leader of the USA, Donald Trump. The main topic of the dialogue is the prospects for peace negotiations with the Russian Federation.
Conditions for starting the dialogue
In his statement, Friedrich Merz outlined the clear position of Western partners. According to him, the parties are ready for peace negotiations, but only if certain conditions are met. The Chancellor emphasized that the dialogue must begin from the "right position," which implies a rejection of ultimatums imposing territorial concessions.
Merz paid special attention to Moscow's demands. He called the Russian condition that Ukraine must give up part of the Donbas "unacceptable." This statement became a direct response to the Kremlin's rhetoric, which continues to insist on the recognition of new borders.
Context of Zelenskyy's initiative
Events are developing against the backdrop of active diplomatic activity by Kyiv. On June 4, Volodymyr Zelenskyy published an open letter addressed to the Russian leader. In the document, the President of Ukraine proposed holding a meeting in a third country to discuss the conditions for a long-term peace.
The initiative was aimed not only at the addressee in the Kremlin but also at representatives of the Russian elites and international partners. However, the reaction was restrained. Vladimir Putin criticized the letter, accusing the author of a "rude tone," and refused personal negotiations, stating that he saw no point in them.
Assessment of the situation in Washington and Kyiv
Despite Moscow's refusal to engage in dialogue, Western politicians remain optimistic about the outcome of the conflict. The Head of the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Andriy Sybiga, stated that Vladimir Putin has effectively lost the ability to exit the war on terms acceptable to himself. The Minister noted that the conflict is becoming increasingly unsuccessful for Russia, and international pressure on Moscow continues to intensify.
This view is shared by the US President. Donald Trump stated that at present, the Russian leader is in a weaker position regarding the war against Ukraine than in previous periods. The joint appeal by Merz and Zelenskyy to Trump is intended to cement this shift in the balance of power and pave the way for real negotiations.