At a Bavarian CSU party convention in Munich, Friedrich Merz warned that Putin would not stop until Ukraine falls, invoking the 1938 era as a historic warning.
Merz’s warning in Munich
During a Saturday speech at the Bavarian CSU convention, Friedrich Merz—leading the CDU—stated, “Putin will not stop.” He added that if Ukraine falls, Putin will continue, aiming to reestablish Soviet borders in Europe and threaten former empire states.
Priority of aid to Ukraine
Merz said Europe’s priority must be assisting Ukraine, ensuring European unity, and building defence capability in cooperation with the United Kingdom.
Call to maintain NATO
He emphasized sustaining NATO, whose purpose he claimed is increasingly challenged by US President Donald Trump, and urged “as long as” commitments remain.
Upcoming Berlin consultations on Ukraine
Consultations on Ukraine are set to begin on Sunday in Berlin, with the main session on Monday. EU, UK leaders and US envoy Steve Witkoff are expected to attend.
Historical parallel to 1938
Merz dismissed World War I comparisons, citing Christopher Clark’s book “Lunatics” and arguing that 1938 is a more accurate historical analogue, noting Hitler’s emboldening and the subsequent outbreak of WWII.
Future policy adjustments
He warned that future questions will assess whether Germany’s social security or pension system is adequate, and whether Germany has made its “maximum contribution” to freedom and peace in Europe.