Merz sees link between Putin-Trump talks and Russian strikes against Ukraine

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz believes that Russia's brutal attacks on Ukraine and US President Donald Trump's talks with Russian leader Vladimir Putin may be related, reports Tagesschau, citing German government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius.
"The chancellor has repeatedly stated that the Russian president has a certain pattern and that phone calls are usually accompanied by even more violent attacks," Kornelius said.
He added that the latest nighttime attack on Ukraine confirms such speculation. The attack after the phone call between the Russian leader and the US president "speaks for itself."
"We expect that this will contribute to a decision on the position on Russia, especially in terms of sanctions," the German government spokesman said.
Putin's call with Trump
Yesterday, July 3, US President Donald Trump had a phone call with Russian president Vladimir Putin.
During the talks, the Kremlin leader reiterated that he intends to pursue his goals in the war against Ukraine.
After the call, Trump said that he was disappointed with the Russian leader because he did not want to stop the war.