German CDU leader Merz comes to Kiev

BRUSSELS. Dec 9 (Interfax) - Leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) of Germany Friedrich Merz is visiting Kiev for negotiations with the Ukrainian leadership on Monday, Western media reported.

"We want [...] peace to be restored in Europe," Merz was quoted as saying upon his arrival.

Berlin should not reduce its support for Kiev, and if this support is provided "consistently," this would help put an end to the Ukrainian crisis sooner, or otherwise, it will be persisting, Merz said.

Media pointed out that Merz assumes a tougher stance with regard to Russia than Chancellor and Social Democratic Party member Olaf Scholz. In particular, Merz has proposed supplying Ukraine with Taurus air-launched cruise missiles, which Scholz is opposed to.

Germany is set to hold a parliamentary election on February 23, 2025. Merz is seen as a possible candidate for chancellor based on the election's outcome.