Speaking to reporters at the G20 summit in Johannesburg on November 23, 2025, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that any resolution of the Ukraine crisis must have the unconditional consent of Ukraine and its European partners. He warned that outside powers alone cannot dictate peace “over the heads” of the countries involved.
“Wars cannot be ended by great powers over the heads of the countries involved,” Merz said, underlining that Europe’s security is directly tied to a solution driven by those most affected. “The end of this crisis can only occur with Ukraine’s unconditional consent.”
Merz revealed that foreign policy advisors from Germany, France, Britain and representatives of the EU will meet with U.S. and Ukrainian counterparts in Geneva on Sunday. These talks aim to lay the groundwork for reliable security guarantees for Ukraine, a critical step toward any lasting settlement.
While Merz noted that “there is currently a chance to end the conflict,” he cautioned that the parties remain far from a common, satisfactory result. The coming consultations in Geneva will test whether momentum for a diplomatic breakthrough can translate into tangible commitments.
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs and changemakers watching from afar, this moment highlights the power—and complexity—of multilateral diplomacy. As digital platforms amplify voices on all sides, the Geneva talks could become a model for inclusive, consent-based peacebuilding in an interconnected world.
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Ending Ukraine crisis requires consent of Ukraine, Europe: Merz
cgtn.com
