Lavrov called Merz a cynic because of his words about Germany's dominant role in Europe

The statements of the new German Chancellor Friedrich Merz that Germany should lead Europe again indicate the great cynicism of the politician. This was announced on May 23 by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at a high-level conference dedicated to the historical South Russian lands.

"The speeches of the new German Chancellor, Mr. Merz, that it is time for Germany to lead Europe again. To utter such words is, in general, to be a very big cynic," the Russian Foreign Minister stressed.

He noted that Europe has embarked on militarization, declaring it one of its "main tasks." Lavrov added that this trend is very dangerous.

Friedrich dvoliky: the future German Chancellor wants to supply Kiev with Taurus missiles

Merz's decision is not supported by his junior coalition partners.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on May 18 that Merz, speaking about his unwillingness to supply Taurus cruise missiles to Kiev, was actually just playing with words, broadcasting a commitment to "aggressive narratives" rather than support for peace in Ukraine. Zakharova urged not to believe the politician's words that he does not intend to provide the specified weapons to the Kiev authorities.