German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is pushing back against Donald Trump’s peace initiative, demanding a Russian ceasefire before any summit with Putin and Zelensky can proceed. Merz warned that credibility of negotiations depends on Moscow halting attacks, urging European leaders to pressure Putin. He confirmed discussions with U.S. and EU partners on security guarantees for Ukraine but cautioned Putin’s participation in talks remains uncertain. While Trump pushes for direct negotiations, Merz insists Europe must play a central role in shaping long-term security arrangements. br br #Merz #Germany #Trump #Putin #Zelensky #UkraineWar #CeasefireNow #PeaceTalks #BreakingNews #Washington #EU #SecurityGuarantees #Geopolitics #GlobalPolitics #RussiaUkraine #TrumpPeaceDeal #CeasefireFirst #DiplomaticPush #NATO #WorldNewsbr br Also Readbr br Trump To Arrange Face-To-Face Meeting Between Putin And Ukraine's Zelenskyy :: br European Leaders Arrive At White House To Meet Trump On Ending Russia's War :: br Donald Trump Suggests "Best Way" To End Russia-Ukraine War After Meeting Putin In Alaska :: br br br ~HT.410~ED.194~GR.