Berlin: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday did not rule out the possibility of sending troops to Ukraine as part of a European-led multinational force to secure a peace agreement. In an interview with public broadcaster ZDF, Merz evaded the question of whether German Armed Forces would participate in such a mission.

According to Anadolu Agency, Merz mentioned that the Coalition of the Willing included not only European countries, but also Canada, Australia, and other nations. He stated, "If it ever comes to that, it will be a ceasefire agreement with Russia." After two days of negotiations with Ukraine and the US in Berlin on Sunday and Monday, several European countries voiced support for a European-led 'multinational force for Ukraine.' This force, backed by the US, is intended to support the Ukrainian armed forces and ensure the security of airspace and seas.

Addressing concerns about Russian opposition, Merz responded to the interviewer's mention of Russian President Vladimir Putin's rejection of foreign troop deployment in Ukraine by saying, "Putin has said 'nyet' (no) to many things, but at some point he will also have to say 'yes.'" The chancellor reiterated that the Ukraine talks in Berlin had shown progress. He discussed the possibility of establishing a demilitarized zone to separate the conflicting parties in Ukraine, while also acknowledging Russia's continued opposition to a ceasefire. Merz emphasized the need for continued collaboration and support for Ukraine.

Regarding the EU summit, the German leader expressed uncertainty about whether an agreement would be reached on using frozen Russian state assets to benefit Ukraine. Merz described the chances of such an agreement as "fifty-fifty," and called for a "clear European stance toward Russia." The use of Russian assets frozen in the EU, which amount to hundreds of billions of euros, is a central issue at the upcoming EU summit in Brussels. Merz acknowledged Belgium's reservations on this matter, noting, "I don't share them, but I take them seriously."