Ukraine’s Victory Means Regaining Control of Its Territories, Says German Chancellor Candidate

A victory for Ukraine in Russia’s war against it should involve regaining control of its territory and ensuring that Russia ceases its attacks. This was stated by Friedrich Merz, the Chancellor candidate for Germany from the opposition CDU/CSU  bloc, in an interview with Bild published on September 29.

"Ukraine will never be able to defeat Russia [militarily], but that was never the goal," said Merz. "But for me, victory means that it must regain sovereignty over its territory. And Russia must stop attacking this country. We must do everything possible to make Russia see the futility of continuing the war with the use of military force. And we are still a long way from that."

According to Merz, after two and a half years of Russia’s war in Ukraine, the outcome is "completely horrifying and shatters illusions." 

"We acted too late and did too little," he said when asked if Germany would offer Kyiv "more decisive and consistent support" should he become federal Chancellor.

As of September 2024, almost 20% of Ukraine’s territories remain under Russian occupation.