German chancellor urges Trump to support new sanctions against Russia at NATO summit

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called on U.S. President Donald Trump to open the door for American sanctions against Russia, stressing the importance of increased economic pressure amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Speaking on the sidelines of the NATO summit in The Hague, Merz emphasised that there is no military solution to the crisis and highlighted the need for coordinated international sanctions, Caliber.Az reports, citing German media.

"I once again expressed to him our urgent request — in light of the situation in Ukraine — that the American side join the new sanctions against Russia," Merz said.

The German leader noted that the European Union is set to finalise its 18th package of sanctions against Moscow on June 26 but insisted that these measures alone will not suffice. He urged for active U.S. participation, adding, "I got the impression that Trump is seriously considering what he can do."

Merz also suggested that the current geopolitical climate, including the situation with Iran, presents a strategic opportunity for the U.S. president to leverage trade and political pressure.

Addressing concerns about NATO’s support for Ukraine, Merz dismissed claims that the summit failed to help Kyiv. He clarified that Ukraine’s membership in NATO was not discussed but highlighted that the alliance and partner countries made significant commitments to aid Ukraine.

By Khagan Isayev