Merz: Putin’s plans don’t end with Ukraine, but begin there

According to him, all indications suggest that Putin’s imperial plans will not end with Ukraine but begin there.

Merz urged European allies to reassess their interests and actively pursue new partnerships worldwide, as relations with the United States are changing.

"We in Europe must adjust our interests - without false nostalgia," the German Chancellor said.

He added that although the United States remains an important partner, the relationship has become less self-evident, as Washington now conditions its ties on certain interests and issues.

Earlier, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is "possibly the most serious war criminal of our time."

Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that Russian leader Vladimir Putin is a predator. She stressed that he will not stop at Ukraine and is already targeting European countries.