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BERLIN

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Wednesday that Berlin would increase pressure on Russia to engage in peace talks with Ukraine, warning of further sanctions if Moscow continues to refuse negotiations.

“We will continue to increase the pressure on Russia. We are doing this to weaken Moscow’s war machine. But we are also doing this to open the way for negotiations,” Merz said during a press briefing alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Berlin.

“Ukraine is ready to hold talks with Russia – anywhere. We Europeans are ready to support these talks. We are also counting on the support of the United States,” Merz added. “We want lasting peace for Ukraine and in Europe.”

The chancellor said Kyiv must have the means to defend itself, including the ability to strike inside Russian territory, and stressed that ongoing Western support would continue.

Merz warned that Russia’s refusal to pursue a ceasefire or negotiate would result in consequences. “You should assume that Russia's refusal to enter into a ceasefire or peace will have consequences. We are also preparing further measures,” he said.

​​​​​​​The German chancellor pledged assistance to Ukraine in procuring long-range missiles with the aim of joint production.

The defense ministers of both countries, Boris Pistorius and Rustem Umerov, were expected to sign a corresponding memorandum of understanding, according to Merz.

"We want to enable long-range weapons. We also want to enable joint production," Merz said. "Above all, we will strive to equip the Ukrainian army with every means (...) to successfully defend the country," the chancellor said.

Merz did not discuss the delivery of the German Taurus cruise missile, which Ukraine has so far requested.

Zelenskyy echoed Merz’s remarks, calling for increased sanctions and sustained international pressure.

“We are in daily dialogue with the US. We are ready. We want an end to the war. We are ready for any format,” Zelenskyy said. “Russia is constantly looking for a way out to avoid ending the war. They are playing for time.”

“Russia must abandon its desire to kill people. For that to happen, pressure must be increased on Russia. That’s why we support tightening sanctions. Prolonging the war must be made painful for Russia,” he added.