Germany’s New Chancellor Merz Vows Continued Support for Ukraine

Germany’s new Chancellor Friedrich Merz pledged unwavering support for Ukraine in a phone call with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Thursday, affirming Berlin’s commitment to help Kyiv resist Russia’s ongoing invasion.

Merz, who assumed office earlier this week following his party's victory in the February federal election, reassured Zelenskiy that Germany remains a reliable ally. He emphasized support for U.S. President Donald Trump’s mediation efforts, carried out in coordination with European partners.

“This includes helping Ukraine defend itself effectively against Russian aggression and exerting pressure on Russia,” a German government spokesperson said.

The call comes as Ukraine continues to face intense Russian attacks, including a deadly airstrike in the frontline town of Kostiantynivka in the Donetsk region. The assault caused heavy damage to residential buildings and left multiple casualties, further underscoring the urgency of international support.

In his nightly address, President Zelenskiy confirmed the conversation and said that he and Merz agreed to collaborate closely on shared priorities. “There are already concrete things that we can do together,” Zelenskiy stated, hinting at upcoming joint actions. “Decisions will be taken.”

Chancellor Merz’s outreach signals continuity in Germany’s foreign policy toward Ukraine and a commitment to maintaining pressure on Moscow, while aligning with allied diplomatic initiatives. The German government is expected to remain a central player in both military aid and political support as the war enters a critical phase.

This renewed partnership reinforces Ukraine’s ties with key European powers and highlights Germany’s strategic role in addressing the conflict through both defense and diplomacy.