German Chancellor Merz: Russia is not interested in negotiations

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held a joint press conference following their meeting in the capital, Berlin. Chancellor Merz stated that during their meeting with President Tokayev, they discussed bilateral relations, as well as economic and trade issues. Pointing out that Kazakhstan is Germany's most important trading partner in Central Asia, Merz noted that they have established a roadmap for the years 2026-2028 in this context.

"This aid is intended solely to persuade the administration in Moscow to make concessions"

Stating that they also exchanged views on international issues with Tokayev, Chancellor Merz expressed that the Russia-Ukraine war was the primary topic of their discussions. Noting that they are making efforts for potential negotiations between the two countries but that Russia's stance is what matters, Merz said, "Peace negotiations can, of course, only take place in an environment where Europeans are also at the table. The goal of such peace negotiations must be a sovereign Ukraine in a secure Europe. As long as Russia is not ready for this peace, the German Government will continue its support for Ukraine. We are providing this support together with our partners. The purpose of this support is not to prolong the war. This aid is intended solely to persuade the administration in Moscow to make concessions."

Merz's first assessment of the meeting between the Russian and German Foreign Ministers

Chancellor Merz also made assessments regarding the meeting held between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul during the UN General Assembly held in New York, USA, last week. Regarding the first meeting at the Foreign Minister level between the two countries in 4.5 years, Merz said, "We have stood by Ukraine from the beginning, and we still do; we are doing everything in our power so that Ukraine can survive this war and freely protect its territorial sovereignty. We are making comprehensive diplomatic efforts. One of these was the meeting the German Foreign Minister had with the Russian Foreign Minister in New York. Russia's subsequent assessment of this meeting has clearly shown that Russia is currently not interested in serious negotiations at all. Therefore, we will do everything we can to continue helping and supporting Ukraine. Not only militarily, but also politically, financially, and economically. As you know, there is a great consensus on this within the European Union as well."

"Russia will not be able to win this war"

Merz stated, "We can once again call on the Russian government to sit at the negotiating table and hold serious talks to end this war. However, if Russia is not ready for this, we are in a position to support Ukraine for a long time to come, and we are prepared to do so. For my part, I can say this once again: Russia will not be able to win this war and will suffer great damage, including its economy. We can already see today how fragile the Russian economy is. If Russia continues this war, the price will be heavy."

"We are discussing ways to improve air support for Ukraine"

Merz stated that they are conducting intensive consultations with partners in Europe on how to further improve aid to Ukraine in preparation for the European Council meeting to be held in Brussels, Belgium, on October 15-16. Merz said, "We are discussing evaluating all possibilities to improve air defense. This is one of the biggest challenges Ukraine is currently facing. In my personal meetings with many heads of state and government around the world, I am also making efforts to ensure the necessary supplies for Ukraine's air defense. This is currently the biggest weak point, and I hope we can manage to prepare Ukraine at least a little bit regarding energy supply. None of us should deceive ourselves about the coming winter. Russia will continue to bomb ruthlessly and will also destroy civilian infrastructure. These are war crimes committed there every day, but we will not be deterred by this. We will continue our support for Ukraine because we know this: Ukraine is part of Europe, and if Ukraine falls, peace and freedom in all of Europe will be in danger. Therefore, we stand very clearly and firmly by Ukraine here, and I will do everything in my power to help this country survive what will likely be a very difficult winter."

"We want to be a reliable oil supply partner for Germany"

President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev also emphasized the importance of relations between Germany and his country, stating, "Germany is a very important partner for us. We will celebrate the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Our relations are based on mutual respect, and we are confident that the dialogue will continue." Tokayev said, "Kazakhstan is one of the most important oil suppliers for Germany; we plan to increase the volume of oil supply, and we want to be a reliable oil supply partner for Germany in the future."

President Tokayev also emphasized that opportunities for diplomacy and negotiations should be provided in the Russia-Ukraine war. Stating that he is in favor of freezing military operations on Ukrainian territory to allow for diplomacy and negotiations, Tokayev said, "We never forget that both Russia and Ukraine are our good friends."

Tokayev's praise for Putin

Tokayev made remarkable remarks about Russian President Vladimir Putin. Tokayev said, "I have very good relations with President Putin. I can say that I see him as an extraordinary political figure. Today, I also expressed in clear terms that I believe Putin is a suitable political leader. It might sound a bit strange to you, but I think this applies to Central Asia, including Kazakhstan, as well as to Europe and the whole world. I know him very well. I believe he possesses the necessary qualities for the role of head of state of a very large country with a complex history, and a unique understanding of the strategic goals that country faces."

Tokayev's praise for Putin at the joint press conference with German Chancellor Merz in Berlin, amidst the tension on the Berlin-Moscow line due to the Ukraine war, espionage activities, and mutual harsh statements and actions, resonated widely, especially on social media.

News Source: 12punto