German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is concerned that Russia’s influence on European societies is not being adequately assessed.
“Operative Information Center-OMM” reports that the German chancellor made the remarks.
He said Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ambitions are not limited to annexing Ukrainian territory. The Kremlin is seeking to weaken democratic institutions, open societies and the process of European integration.
Merz stressed that the threat originating from Russia extends across Europe’s entire political system.
The German chancellor said his country had committed to continuing to finance military aid to Ukraine together with its European partners and countries beyond Europe.
Although he acknowledged that this placed a significant burden on budgets, he stressed the importance of continuing support for Ukraine until the war ends.
“This is indeed a major burden on our budgets and a very important issue for the European Union,” Merz said.
The chancellor is also seeking to convince U.S. President Donald Trump that a stable and strong Europe serves the interests of the United States as well. In his view, Europe’s role as a strong partner is of strategic importance to Washington.