Efforts for peace: German Chancellor on the long road to ending the war in Ukraine

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has made a cautious forecast for the end of the war in Ukraine, stressing that the process of achieving peace is only just beginning and could drag on for many weeks or even months. Speaking at a press conference in Vilnius, he stressed that the German government has no illusions about a quick end to the fighting.

Merz's statement came in the context of his participation in the ceremonial opening of a new permanent Bundeswehr brigade in Lithuania - an important step in strengthening NATO's eastern flank. The politician used the opportunity to express Germany's position on the conflict in Ukraine and further prospects for a diplomatic settlement.

"We have no illusions - there will be no quick end to the war," Merz stressed, commenting on the intensification of diplomatic contacts in recent weeks. According to him, despite attempts to find a way to a ceasefire, no quick breakthroughs are expected.

The Chancellor stressed that the negotiation process is still at an early stage. According to him, it is necessary to be prepared for the fact that peace initiatives will require a lot of time and persistent efforts. "The process has only just begun, and it may take many more weeks or even months," he noted.

Friedrich Merz also emphasized Germany's unwavering support for Ukraine, both in the military and diplomatic spheres. In particular, he emphasized that Berlin is using all available opportunities to promote a peaceful settlement, while maintaining a sober view of reality.

"We are not missing any opportunity for a peaceful settlement, but we must be realistic - achieving a diplomatic solution takes time," the German leader concluded. His words became further evidence that the war in Ukraine remains a central topic of European security, and the search for peace is a complex and long-term process.