German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that following consultations between G7 leaders and U.S. President Donald Trump, a “first opportunity for peace” has emerged in the war between Russia and Ukraine, according to media reports.

Merz explained that the leaders discussed concrete next steps toward ending the conflict and agreed to continue supporting Ukraine while simultaneously increasing pressure on Russia.

The German chancellor specifically highlighted the stance of U.S. President Donald Trump, noting that he had made significant remarks regarding the prospect of ending the war.

“What gives us all reason for confidence are President Trump’s words: Russia must end this war. I believe that is a clear signal,” Merz said.

He also expressed confidence that cooperation between Europe and the United States on achieving a peaceful resolution would become even closer in the coming months.

According to Merz, the talks also addressed the possibility of tightening sanctions against Russia and introducing additional measures aimed at pushing Moscow toward negotiations.

The chancellor emphasized his belief that Russia will not be able to secure a military victory and that sustained economic pressure and sanctions could create the necessary conditions for a peace settlement.

G7 Meeting – Key Developments

The war in Ukraine was one of the central topics at the G7 summit in France. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Donald Trump, while European leaders urged Washington to take a more active role in advancing diplomatic efforts.

Merz noted that he and Zelensky jointly appealed to the U.S. president to engage more directly in initiatives aimed at launching peace negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow.

For his part, Trump described his meeting with President Zelensky as “very good.” He stressed that both Ukraine and Russia continue to suffer losses on the battlefield, calling the situation “senseless,” and stated that he intends to do everything possible to help bring the war to an end. Another meeting between Zelensky and Trump is expected to take place on June 17.