Berlin – American-Russian plans to end the war in Ukraine sent shockwaves across Europe. Experts believe this was a call for Ukraine to surrender. As BILD knows, the Chancellor is also very concerned about the actions of the Trump administration and has attempted to take diplomatic countermeasures.
On Wednesday evening, a 28-point plan was leaked drawn up by advisers to Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. In exchange for Russia halting its attacks, Ukraine would have to cede contested territory in Donbas, halve its armed forces, and withhold military aid from the US.
Experts say the plan would leave Ukraine highly vulnerable to future attacks. Nico Lange (50, Munich Security Conference) spoke at BILD about “efforts to get rid of Ukraine”.
The Europeans were not involved in the development of the plan. According to BILD information from government circles, he caused concern in the Chancellor’s office.
The government sees Zelenskyj as weakened
The federal government views the Ukrainian side as weak – militarily and politically. This is due to the difficult frontal situation and Corruption scandal in President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government. Ukraine has rarely been as sensitive to pressure as it is now.
However, the Chancellor did not remain silent. As BILD knows, the federal government is mobilizing its European partners. Ukraine should be encouraged, albeit weakened, to respond forcefully to growing US pressure. Berlin also wants to influence the US government at the highest levels so that the consequences of the plan for Europe are clear to Washington.
Wants to help Ukraine: Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz (70)
What this means: Trump must personally understand what his controversial adviser, 68-year-old Steve Witkoff, has been up to with Putin’s negotiators – and what US allies in Europe think about it. Witkoff has attracted attention because he allowed himself to be surprised by Russia in direct talks and took over as Russia’s negotiator.
Insider: Russia is also under pressure
European insiders told BILD that the US is counting on surprise and maximum pressure on Ukraine – and wants to exploit Kiev’s moment of weakness. The US side may be deliberately trying to extract concessions from Zelensky at a time when the wartime president is under pressure at home and abroad over a corruption scandal involving his ministers.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj (47) is under great pressure
But the American head of state did not take a unilateral approach. Russia is also feeling the pressure from Trump, according to insiders: Putin’s oil companies, Lukoil and Rosneft, have complained about the new US sanctions. With Trump’s blessing, the US Congress is even planning another punishment package.
However, European countries worry that Russia can withstand US pressure better than beleaguered Ukraine. If Kiev surrenders, meaning a de facto capitulation to Russia, this would pose a major risk to the continent’s security.
