Germany's Chancellor Merz Warns of Prolonged War in Ukraine

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has emphasized that the war in Ukraine is likely to be prolonged, citing Russia's reluctance to negotiate and the absence of military or economic exhaustion on either side. He warned that peace talks have been used by Russia as a delaying tactic, with Putin viewing offers for talks as a sign of weakness. Merz urged Western allies to prepare for a longer conflict, highlighting that all diplomatic options have been exhausted, including offers for ceasefires and meetings at the Vatican. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Zelensky has expressed frustration over Moscow's delays in implementing ceasefire agreements, accusing Russia of mocking the international community. Germany, alongside France, the UK, and the US, has recently lifted restrictions on the range of weapons supplied to Ukraine, signaling increased support amid ongoing escalations, including recent Russian airstrikes on Kiev. These developments underscore the growing recognition among Ukraine's key backers that the conflict may extend well into the future.