Merz reports unexpected Ukrainian gains on frontline in February
Photo: Friedrich Merz (Getty Images)
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz assessed the performance of Ukrainian forces in February, saying the country’s defence has been more effective than often portrayed in the media, highlighting notable territorial gains and the war’s impact on Russia’s economy, according to The Independent.
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Merz said Ukrainian forces achieved unexpected territorial gains in February, while stressing that Russia’s economy is under significant pressure due to sanctions and the war.
According to military command data, Ukraine regained control over about 400 square kilometers of territory and recaptured eight settlements.
Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that southern areas had been liberated across roughly 300 square kilometers as part of a counteroffensive.
Strikes on key Russian infrastructure
Ukraine also carried out a drone strike on a strategic Russian oil facility on 23 February.
The station, whose exact location has not been disclosed, is part of the Druzhba pipeline supplying oil to Eastern European countries.
The strike came hours after Hungary blocked a new EU sanctions package against Moscow.
Disputes over oil supplies
Russian oil supplies through the Druzhba pipeline to Hungary and Slovakia were halted on 27 January after a Ukrainian drone strike damaged pipeline equipment on Ukrainian territory.
Despite this, Slovakia and Hungary have blamed Kyiv for the prolonged disruption.
Merz has also said he currently sees little prospect for a rapid negotiated end to Russia’s war against Ukraine, suggesting the conflict will likely continue until one side becomes significantly exhausted, militarily or economically.
The German chancellor added that Russia is unlikely to be ready for genuine negotiations, meaning the international community should increase pressure on Moscow.
