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Russia’s war against Ukraine could last many more months, says Merz

Russia’s war against Ukraine could last many more months, says Merz Photo: Friedrich Merz, Chancellor of Germany (Getty Images)
Author: Daryna Vialko

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz does not rule out that Russia’s war against Ukraine could continue for many more months, Le Figaro reports.

He said Ukraine’s partners are ready to continue supporting the country under full-scale war conditions.

"This war could last many more months. In any case, we must prepare for this. We are ready," Merz said.

The Chancellor also emphasized that maintaining the work of the Coalition of the Willing is a priority for the Franco-German alliance.

Notably, on August 28, the German government head stated that a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian leader Vladimir Putin will not take place.

When could the war end

US officials’ forecasts for the end of Russia’s war against Ukraine are generally more optimistic than European predictions.

For example, US Vice President JD Vance believes the war could end within 3–6 months.

Meanwhile, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff said Washington hopes to resolve three conflicts by the end of the year, including Russia’s war against Ukraine.

At the same time, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani expressed skepticism about the war ending before the end of 2025.