Munich: The Ukraine war has dominated talks among Western leaders, with Germany’s chancellor Friedrich Merz stating that the conflict will only end when Russia becomes economically or militarily exhausted.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Merz has described the gathering as a key indicator of relations between the United States and Europe and said the war has forced Europe to re-engage with global security challenges.
The Ukraine war has entered its fifth year and has remained high on the conference agenda. France’s president Emmanuel Macron has said any peace settlement must safeguard Ukraine, maintain European security and avoid encouraging future invasions. Macron has also warned against pushing Kyiv to accept defeat and has stressed that Europe must be involved in negotiations to ensure a lasting settlement.
European leaders have scheduled meetings with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the ongoing conflict and future diplomatic steps. Zelenskyy has indicated that Ukraine could hold elections if a ceasefire lasting two to three months were agreed and accompanied by security guarantees.
Zelenskyy has said compromises have already been made but emphasised that the country cannot ignore the human cost of the conflict while remaining ready to end the war when conditions allow. Diplomatic engagement has continued on multiple fronts. Ukraine’s foreign minister Andriy Sybiga has held talks with China’s foreign minister Wang Yi, who has indicated Beijing is willing to provide additional humanitarian assistance.
Military support has also continued alongside diplomatic efforts. Britain has committed £540 million in additional weapons support to Ukraine, including £150 million for US-made interceptors and £390 million for Lightweight Multirole Missiles intended to strengthen air defences. The funding has been coordinated through a NATO mechanism designed to facilitate arms purchases for Kyiv.
Meanwhile, hostilities have persisted. A Ukrainian missile strike in the Russian border city of Belgorod has killed two people and injured five, according to regional authorities. Restoration work on damaged infrastructure has been paused overnight due to safety concerns.
The Ukraine war has therefore remained unresolved despite ongoing diplomatic activity, with Western leaders stressing sustained pressure on Russia and continued support for Ukraine as negotiations and military developments continue.
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