Mertz suggested Vance talk to Vance about a cease-fire in Ukraine before talks with Russia

German chancellor candidate and leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) Friedrich Merz has said that during a meeting with US Vice President JD Vance on the margins of the Munich conference, he agreed on a ceasefire in Ukraine before talks with Russia.

"During our conversation, I proposed as a confidence-building measure to agree on a ceasefire in Ukraine before the start of negotiations with Russia," he wrote on his social networking page X (former Twitter).

Merz also noted that the sides are in solidarity that the Ukrainian conflict should be brought to an end as soon as possible. According to him, this requires joint efforts of Europe and the United States.

"The path to lasting peace can only be successful with close coordination between the US and Europe," Merz clarified.

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On Feb. 13, Merz said he was extremely pessimistic about Ukraine 's prospects in the conflict. He also added that Russia could allegedly attack the Baltic states if it wins. According to Merz, one should not expect American support in such a development of events.