Ukraine and Germany leaders meet to appeal for European involvement ahead of tripartite talks

Ukrainian President Zelenskiy visited Berlin on the 3rd and met with German Chancellor Merz. Ahead of next week's tripartite talks between the United States, Russia, and Ukraine aimed at ending Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the leaders agreed to strengthen Europe's involvement in the peace process. As Russia steps up attacks on energy facilities, Merz promised additional air defense and wintering aid.

At a joint press conference after the meeting, Zelensky criticized Russia for its daily attacks on the energy industry. He said the three-party talks would focus on an energy truce and ensuring the safety of Black Sea navigation. He also appealed, ``Unless Europe also comes to the negotiating table, we will not be able to achieve lasting peace.''

Regarding the restart of the three-party talks, Merz said, ``This is the right step,'' but expressed his desire to strengthen involvement, saying, ``Europe also needs to play a role.'' He stressed that ``our support for Ukraine is for the security of Europe,'' and announced that a summit meeting of the European-led ``coalition of the willing'' to support Ukraine will be held in Berlin next week.