Does Ending the Ukraine Crisis Depend on Ukraine and Europe?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Consent of Ukraine and Europe is essential for resolving the crisis.
- Major powers should not dictate terms over the involved nations.
- Further consultations are planned among European and US officials.
- Security guarantees for Ukraine are vital for its future.
- Peace talks are ongoing, focusing on aligning interests.
Berlin, Nov 23 (NationPress) German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that resolving the crisis in Ukraine mandates the approval of both Ukraine and its European allies, rather than solely relying on major global powers. Speaking during a press briefing at the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, Merz stated that the ongoing conflict in Europe affects the overall security of the continent, according to Xinhua news agency.
He remarked, “Wars cannot be concluded by great powers over the heads of the countries involved,” arguing that a resolution to this crisis can only be achieved with Ukraine’s full agreement.
Merz mentioned that foreign policy advisors from Germany, France, and Britain, along with EU representatives, are set to engage in further discussions with US and Ukrainian officials this Sunday in Geneva.
He highlighted the necessity for establishing trustworthy security assurances for Ukraine.
While recognizing the current opportunity to conclude the conflict, Merz warned that the involved parties are still distant from reaching a mutually satisfactory resolution.
Additionally, delegations from Ukraine and the United States are scheduled to meet in Switzerland shortly to discuss the potential terms of a future peace agreement with Russia. Rustem Umerov, the secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defence Council, shared this update.
Umerov stated, “This is another phase of the ongoing dialogue, primarily aimed at aligning our perspectives on the next steps,” via a Facebook post.
He reiterated that Ukraine approaches the peace talks “with a clear understanding of its interests,” as reported by Xinhua.