Merz calls potential U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine “significant progress”

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) expressed optimism following the summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. “This summit could become a success on the path to peace in Ukraine,” Merz told broadcasters RTL and n-tv in an interview on Saturday. According to Merz, Trump had explained in detail to European allies during a phone call how extensively he had spoken with Putin about the modalities of a peace agreement.

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Merz specifically pointed to Trump’s assurance that the United States was prepared to provide security guarantees for Ukraine. “That was not reflected at all in the joint press conference held by Trump and Putin in Alaska on Friday,” Merz noted. “But it is truly a major step forward that America is ready to give such security guarantees together with us Europeans,” he stressed. Such guarantees from Washington, he added, were “probably one of the most strategically important aspects.”

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Merz confirmed that no agreement on a ceasefire was reached at the summit, even though Trump had aimed for one. Instead, “a comprehensive peace agreement was arranged,” the chancellor reported. Trump had explained that he considered such an agreement “far better than a ceasefire.” Merz added: “Yes, that can be seen that way, provided such an agreement now comes very quickly. There are still many open questions, but a first step has been taken.”

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The chancellor emphasized that the hard work of negotiating a peace accord now lies ahead. A diplomatic solution must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty, he said, and Saturday’s outcome brings that goal “a small step closer.” Merz highlighted the upcoming meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Trump on Monday as the next milestone toward a potential trilateral summit involving Trump, Putin, and Zelensky. “That is a good path,” Merz said, though he warned it would be difficult.

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He underlined that Europe would continue to assist Zelensky in preparing for such talks, noting that another video conference between European leaders and Zelensky is already scheduled for Sunday. Merz also revealed that European partners had offered to host a possible trilateral summit in Europe. Trump and Putin met in Alaska on Friday to discuss the war in Ukraine. While both leaders described the meeting as “productive,” they refrained from disclosing details. Trump later briefed Zelensky and European leaders about his talks with Putin in a video call.

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