Merz: Western troops could repel Russia if Ukraine ceasefire secured

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz indicated that European and U.S. peacekeepers could, under certain circumstances, repel Russian forces in Ukraine if a ceasefire is agreed, though he stressed this remains a distant prospect.

Speaking to public television, Merz outlined the potential security guarantees discussed in Berlin talks on December 15 between U.S. officials and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

He said that guarantors would need to act should Russia violate any ceasefire terms.

"We would secure a demilitarised zone between the warring parties and, to be very specific, we would also act against corresponding Russian incursions and attacks. We're not there yet," Merz said.

He described the U.S. commitment to protecting Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire as “a remarkable new position for the United States of America.” Russia has not yet agreed to a ceasefire or to the presence of Western troops on Ukrainian soil.

Merz also touched on European discussions over the use of immobilised Russian assets to fund Ukraine’s defence. He estimated a "50:50" chance of reaching an agreement, underlining the need for continued support as Ukraine will require funding for at least two more years beyond current European pledges.

"There are reservations throughout Europe, and I can well understand these reservations," he said. "But ... if we don't act now and make the decision we could make to halt this advance of the Russian army, when will we?"

On U.S.-Europe relations, Merz acknowledged the critical tone in the new U.S. National Security Strategy, saying it reflected concerns voiced by Vice President JD Vance earlier this year. He added, however, that any isolationist shift in Washington was unlikely to last.

"America first is all well and good, but America alone would not be good for America either," Merz said. "And taking a look at the economic data in America, I can imagine that the Americans will eventually approach us and say, 'Don't we want to talk about some issues that benefit us both?'"

By Aghakazim Guliyev