The head of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and likely future German Chancellor Friedrich Merz categorically rejected the possibility of imposing peace on Ukraine on Russia's terms. Speaking at a party congress in Berlin, Merz said that "a dictate of peace or military subordination - especially against Ukraine's own will - is incompatible" with the position of Germany and Europe. He stressed that supporting Ukraine's aggression remains a priority for Germany and expressed hope for further cooperation with the United States on this issue. Merz's statement comes amid ongoing discussions about the future of the conflict and Kyiv's reaction to Moscow's proposal for a temporary ceasefire.

Merz, who is considered the favorite to become chancellor after the CDU/CSU wins the February 2025 parliamentary elections, has repeatedly stressed the need to strengthen military and political support for Ukraine. In his speech, he emphasized that a peaceful settlement must take into account Ukraine's interests, including the restoration of its territorial integrity and the right to choose political and military alliances. According to him, Russia should not dictate terms. Merz also noted that the conflict in Ukraine is not only a regional conflict, but also part of a systemic confrontation.

Against this backdrop, Russia's proposal for a temporary ceasefire from May 8 to 10 has provoked a skeptical reaction in Kyiv.