Merz Signals Shift in Germany's Ukraine Stance, Hints at Diplomacy

Friedrich Merz, likely Germany's next chancellor, hinted at a more realistic approach to the Russia-Ukraine war during a talk with students, suggesting a potential shift toward diplomacy. This comes after Berlin and Kyiv rejected a 28-point US agenda in November that could have brought the war closer to an end. The conflict remains a war of attrition, with no major front-line changes despite announced spring offensives in the fifth year. Ukrainian unmanned military technology, including drones and ground robots, along with destruction of forward ammunition depots and strikes on Russian rear areas, prevents major Russian breakthroughs. However, the situation could change daily. A ceasefire is proposed for World War II commemoration. The full occupation of Donbas remains a key issue.