Merz warned of decisive weeks for Europe's future

Europe may face decisive weeks or months that will determine the preservation of peace and freedom on the continent. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz believes that during this period it is especially important not to weaken support for Ukraine in its war against Russia.

Merz stated this on September 14 at the European Arctic Summit in Finnish Rovaniemi.

“With high probability, the decisive moments, perhaps weeks or months, are still ahead when it comes to defending freedom and peace on our continent,” the German Chancellor said.

Merz emphasized that he intends to do everything possible to maintain German support for Ukraine and to convince German citizens that continuing this aid is in the country's own interests.

According to the Chancellor, European states need to maintain resilience until the end of the Russian-Ukrainian war. He warned that Russia's success would have consequences far beyond Ukraine.

“Now we must remain steadfast until this terrible war ends. If Russia succeeds, it will have unpredictable and unprecedented consequences for all of us, including Germany,” Merz stated.

The statement came amid discussions on European security at the summit in Rovaniemi. The meeting is taking place on September 13–14 at the invitation of Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo. Leaders of several EU countries and representatives of European institutions are participating. One of the summit's tasks is to form an updated strategic approach of the European Union to the Arctic, including security, infrastructure and sustainability issues.

Participants of the meeting also drew attention to the increase in Russian activity in the Arctic region. Twelve European countries called on the European Union to play a more strategic and active role there, pointing to the long-term threat from Russia and the growth of hybrid activity.

Merz himself called the Arctic a region of critical importance for the security and stability of Europe. According to him, Russia is building up military capabilities there and uses its presence daily for hybrid activities.

The importance of the Arctic for European security has also been growing in recent years due to new sea routes and raw material reserves. After Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, issues of military presence and protection of northern borders have become one of the key elements of the policies of the states in the region.

Germany under Merz has repeatedly advocated for increasing European defense capabilities and continuing support for Ukraine. Berlin also emphasizes the need for European states to take greater responsibility for their own security.

Based on materials from: n-tv, German Government