In a significant development from high-level talks in Berlin, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has outlined a potential future security framework for Ukraine involving American and European peacekeepers. This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy suggested negotiations on a peace deal to end Russia's invasion are close to being finalised.
Security Guarantees and the "Far-Off" Peacekeeper Plan
Speaking to ZDF public television, Chancellor Merz elaborated on security guarantees discussed during Monday's talks with President Zelenskyy. He stated that under a proposed post-ceasefire arrangement, guarantor nations—the United States and European partners—could, in certain circumstances, be tasked with repelling Russian forces.
"We would secure a demilitarised zone between the warring parties and, to be very specific, we would also act against corresponding Russian incursions and attacks," Merz explained. He was quick to temper expectations, emphasising "We're not there yet" and describing the scenario as a "far-off prospect."
Merz highlighted the novelty of the American position, noting, "The fact that the Americans have made such a commitment – to protect Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire as if it were Nato territory – I think that's a remarkable new position for the United States of America."
Peace Talks Progress Amid Russian Absence
Following two days of discussions in the German capital, President Zelenskyy indicated that proposals negotiated with US officials could soon be ready. He said American envoys would then present the terms to the Kremlin. US officials offered an optimistic assessment, claiming 90% of problematic issues between Russia and Ukraine had been resolved.
However, the path to peace remains fraught. The current talks lack Russian representation, and the Kremlin has signalled its opposition to the European role in the US-backed plan. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov was quoted by Russian news agencies stating, "The participation of the Europeans, in terms of acceptability, does not bode well." Peskov also confirmed Moscow had not yet been informed of the results from the Berlin meetings.
Other Key Developments on Day 1,393
The UN's human rights chief, Volker Türk, raised a stark alarm on Wednesday about the deteriorating situation in Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories. In a presentation to the UN Human Rights Council, he detailed a grim picture of tightening restrictions on freedom of movement, expression, and religion.
In a move against foreign media, Russian authorities on Tuesday designated the German public broadcaster Deutsche Welle as an "undesirable organisation," effectively banning its operations. Involvement with such groups is a criminal offence under Russian law. DW's director general, Barbara Massing, condemned the move as Russia's latest attempt to silence independent journalism.
On the ground, safety concerns persist at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Its Russian management reported on Tuesday that the facility is now operating on only one of two external power lines, after the other was disconnected due to military activity. Officials stated radiation levels were normal and repair work would begin as soon as possible.
In a separate international issue, South Africa's government is engaged in talks with Russia to repatriate 17 South African men allegedly tricked into fighting for Russian forces on the Ukrainian frontlines.
