Chancellor Merz to Urge “Fair Ceasefire” in Ukraine During First Meeting with President Trump

 Berlin/Washington, June 2 — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is expected to press for a “fair ceasefire” in Ukraine during his first in-person meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington on Thursday, according to a spokesperson for the German government.

The visit marks Chancellor Merz’s most significant diplomatic engagement since assuming office last month, following a turbulent start to his chancellorship. He has since reaffirmed Berlin’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine, placing transatlantic security cooperation at the center of his administration's foreign policy.

“The government’s objectives are clear, and the Chancellor will use every diplomatic channel available — including the possibility of sanctions — to advocate for a just and sustainable ceasefire in Ukraine,” the spokesperson told journalists in Berlin on Monday.

While Merz is mindful of ongoing U.S. legislative efforts targeting Russia, including a sanctions package led by Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, he is expected to refrain from involvement in U.S. domestic affairs, the spokesperson clarified.

Senator Graham, representing South Carolina, has been championing bipartisan legislation that proposes what he termed “bone-breaking sanctions” on Russia and its trading partners. The bill, which enjoys support from 82 co-sponsors, would require approval from both chambers of Congress and President Trump’s signature to become law.

President Trump, who has recently voiced frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin over escalating missile and drone strikes on Ukrainian targets, is likely to engage with Merz on a broader discussion of strategic stability and the role of NATO.

The meeting between the two leaders is seen as pivotal for transatlantic relations at a time of growing uncertainty about long-term U.S. security commitments in Europe.