German Chancellor Friedrich Merz speaks during his joint press conferance with Finnish Prime Minister in Turku, Finland, on May 27, 2025. Photo: Roni Rekomaa / Lehtikuva
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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in Turku on Tuesday that Russia and President Vladimir Putin have no interest in pursuing a ceasefire in Ukraine. He made the comments during a joint press appearance with Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo.
Merz is visiting Finland to attend a meeting with Nordic prime ministers. His remarks followed questions about diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
“I haven’t had any illusions from the beginning that this would happen quickly,” Merz said. “The Russians are not responding to invitations from the Vatican or other mediators. That shows Russia and Putin are not currently interested in a truce or ceasefire.”
His comments come as Ukraine continues to defend against an escalation of Russian drone and missile attacks. According to Ukrainian
Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi