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Merz, Zelenskyy Discuss Russian Airstrikes Ahead of NATO Summit
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ท Greece /Conflict & Security

Merz, Zelenskyy Discuss Russian Airstrikes Ahead of NATO Summit

From Kathimerini · () Greek

Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement Context piece
  • German Chancellor Friedrich Merz spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy via phone.
  • They discussed recent Russian airstrikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian regions.
  • The call took place before an upcoming NATO summit where members are expected to pledge 70 billion euros in military aid for Ukraine in 2026.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz held a phone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, discussing the ongoing impact of Russian airstrikes on Ukraine. The call, initiated ahead of a significant NATO summit, focused on the recent aerial attacks targeting Kyiv and other Ukrainian territories.

The German government released a statement detailing the discussion, which also touched upon the broader context of international support for Ukraine. The conversation between Merz and Zelenskyy is seen as crucial preparation for the upcoming NATO summit scheduled to take place in Ankara, Turkey.

At the summit, NATO member states are anticipated to formally commit to providing substantial military assistance to Ukraine. Reports indicate a pledge of approximately 70 billion euros for the year 2026, underscoring the alliance's continued commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense efforts amidst the ongoing conflict.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathimerini in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.