Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel has criticised the European Union for not doing enough diplomatically to help end Russia’s war in Ukraine, arguing that Europe is failing to fully use its political influence in efforts to secure peace.
Speaking during an interview with German broadcaster WDR, Merkel said military support for Ukraine remains necessary and justified, but stressed that diplomacy should play a stronger role alongside defence measures. She said it was not enough for US President Donald Trump alone to maintain contact with Russia, adding that Europe should be more actively engaged in diplomatic initiatives.
Her comments come as pressure grows on European leaders to appoint a special envoy to mediate peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. Both Moscow and Kyiv have reportedly signalled openness to such a role, particularly as US diplomatic attention shifts towards the conflict involving Iran.
Merkel revealed that during her final European Council meeting in 2021, months before Russia’s full-scale invasion, she proposed creating a diplomatic framework between the EU and Russia. However, she said the idea failed due to divisions within the bloc over how to approach Moscow.
The former chancellor also addressed speculation that she could serve as a future EU peace envoy, noting that no formal request had been made. While acknowledging her experience negotiating with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Merkel argued that effective negotiations require leaders with direct political authority.
Her remarks also revive debate around her legacy, particularly Germany’s increased dependence on Russian gas during her years in office and the ultimately unsuccessful Minsk agreements, which sought to halt fighting in eastern Ukraine following Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014.
via Politico
