State Duma deputy calls Merz’s position on negotiations with Russia “ham-fisted”

Dmitry Belik, a member of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs, described German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s view that negotiations with Russia should be achieved through increased pressure as strange.

He made the statement in a conversation with RIA Novosti.

“It is a rather ham-fisted solution to try to force Russia into peace by stoking the fire of war in Ukraine even further. Perhaps Merz was a failing student in history class at school,” Belik said.

In the deputy’s view, Merz’s words indicate that the EU is not actually thinking about real peace in Ukraine. Belik attributed the German chancellor’s desire to inflict defeat on Russia to “phantom pains” over Germany’s defeat in World War II, possible personal motives, and the Russophobia of the German elites.

The Russian parliamentarian’s reaction was prompted by Merz’s statement that Europe is increasing pressure on Russia in order to bring it to a readiness to begin negotiations on a settlement of the conflict in Ukraine. The German chancellor also stressed that the Ukrainian side can count on unwavering support from Europe.

In addition, Merz stated that EU countries are ready to sit down at the negotiating table with Ukraine, Russia, and the United States in order to settle the conflict.

Earlier, Russia suggested that relations with Europe would only be restored in 40 years.