Mertz explains to Trump real risks to Ukraine through frontline map and closed talks - Politico

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz held talks with Donald Trump, choosing a strategy of "private diplomacy." This is reported by Politico.

It is noted that the German leader deliberately avoided controversy in front of cameras, even when the US president criticized other European allies. Merz explained his silence by working for results.

"I did this behind closed doors because, as I said, I did not want to play out the conflict on the open stage there," he said.

The main topic of the meeting was the war in Ukraine. Merz not only called for tougher sanctions, but also showed Trump a map of the front line. According to the chancellor, he wanted to convey that territorial concessions will not solve the problem, as moscow is simply trying to buy time.

"Russia is stalling for time and, in doing so, is acting against the will of the American president. Today I called for increased pressure on Moscow," Merz said after the meeting.

The chancellor also emphasized the importance of European participation in any peace agreement. He noted that Trump realizes that stability in the region is impossible without European support.

"Trump knows that only a peace supported and legitimized by Europe can last. He also knows that Europe's contribution to Ukraine's security, recovery, and European integration will be indispensable," Merz said.

Despite the complexity of the dialogue, Merz managed to establish personal contact with the US president, who called the chancellor a "friend" and praised his work. This tactic allowed Merz to openly defend the interests of allies, including Britain, in private, avoiding a public confrontation that could block further negotiations

As the Ukrainian News agency earlier reported, Trump announced the termination of relations with Spain due to the refusal to provide bases for strikes.