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Putin Must Be Denied Victory, Says German Opposition Leader Merz

At the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, on 20 January, Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s conservative opposition and a candidate for Chancellor, spoke with clear resolve about the war in Ukraine. Merz declared that the conflict must end, but he emphasised that the end must come from a position of strength, not weakness. He stressed that there should be no hope for Russian President Vladimir Putin to achieve his war goals or conquer Ukraine.

Merz’s statement at the WEF, where nearly 3,000 participants from over 130 countries gathered, including 60 heads of state and government, was made in the context of the ongoing war that has raged since 2022. He argued that Ukraine’s defence is not merely about resisting Russia but about defending European values and freedom. Merz is set to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the event, where he will reaffirm his unwavering support for Ukraine’s fight for freedom.

The German opposition leader voiced his regret that Germany and its allies had not provided Ukraine with sufficient support earlier in the war. He noted that if stronger military aid had been given at the onset, the war could have potentially ended by now. However, he acknowledged that the current situation is at a “very critical phase,” with uncertainty surrounding the level of future assistance from the United States. Merz also highlighted the need for continued pressure on Putin, stressing that Germany must do everything possible to ensure that Russia’s leader realises he has no chance of conquering Ukraine or winning the war.

Merz, who visited Ukraine in May 2022 and again in December 2023, has been a strong advocate for increasing Germany’s military aid to Ukraine, including the transfer of long-range Taurus missiles. He reiterated that Germany must continue to support Ukraine until Putin’s ambitions are fully defeated, ensuring that Europe’s security and values are preserved.

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