- Category
- Latest news
Merz Tells Trump: Ukraine Must Hold Front Line, No More Territory to Putin
- Authors
![Photo of Cyril Barabaltchouk]( "Photo of Cyril Barabaltchouk")
-72b63a4e0c8c475ad81fe3eed3f63729.jpeg "Photo of Cyril Barabaltchouk")
Following meetings in Washington, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz told journalists on March 4 that maintaining the current front line in Ukraine is crucial and must not be pushed further west to allow Russian territorial gains.
Merz’s comments underscored the fortified defense lines Ukraine has constructed, which include bunkers, anti-tank obstacles, and other measures designed to hold back Russian advances.
We bring you stories from the ground. Your support keeps our team in the field.
Merz was clear in his statement: “The front line currently held by Ukraine must remain and cannot be moved further west to the detriment of Ukraine.” He further warned that if this line were to fall and Russia were allowed to push beyond it, or even gain territory, it would open what he referred to as the “highway to Kyiv.”
According to Merz, this scenario would not only be unacceptable to Ukraine but would also pose a serious threat to European security. In addition to discussing the critical defense of Ukraine’s current position, Merz and US President Donald Trump focused their talks on Ukraine’s future access to the Black Sea.
Merz emphasized the significance of Odesa and the surrounding region in securing this access, stating, “Odesa and the surrounding region–it is the part that will open Ukraine’s access to the Black Sea in the future as well. And this must also remain.”
Merz noted that the atmosphere of his meeting with Trump was positive, with both sides agreeing on key priorities for resolving the war in Ukraine. The discussions reinforced the shared European and American commitment to preventing any further escalation along the western front while ensuring Ukraine’s access to vital territorial waters.
Earlier, Germany had initiated discussions with France on the creation of a joint European nuclear deterrence arrangement integrated into NATO structures.
“I have already begun initial talks with French President Emmanuel Macron regarding European nuclear deterrence,” Merz said.
-c439b7bd9030ecf9d5a4287dc361ba31.jpg "Photo of Katherina Popilnichenko")
