The future Chancellor of Germany and the leader of the Christian-Democratic Union Friedrich Merz said that Ukraine cannot become a member of NATO or the European Union while in a state of war.
Despite this position, Mertz confirmed that the promises of Ukraine's future accession to both organizations remain valid. According to him, the door for Kiev is open, but full integration is possible only after the war is over. The politician also emphasized the danger of neglecting the Russian threat. He warned that Russia's underestimation is a strategic mistake that can be expensive to Europe.
He called on the European community to be realistic about the timing of the end of the war and the need for long -term support for Ukraine - both political and military.