Merz: 'Diplomacy with Russia currently hopeless' - Merz rejects new Russia talks, calling diplomacy pointless amid Ukraine war

Chancellor Friedrich Merz has ruled out fresh diplomatic talks with Russia, calling them futile under current conditions. His stance comes as he campaigns in Hesse ahead of the state's municipal elections on 17 March. Nearly 4.7 million voters will decide local leadership in the upcoming polls.

Merz and Hesse's Minister-President Boris Rhein launched the final phase of the election campaign this week. During a CDU event in Volkmarsen, the chancellor dismissed demands for renewed diplomacy with Moscow. He argued that past attempts had failed, with Russian attacks following each offer of dialogue.

Merz framed the war in Ukraine as an assault on Europe's political order, not just a border conflict. He insisted that any negotiations must begin with a ceasefire, a condition Russia has yet to meet. His position remains unchanged since February 2022, when hostilities first escalated.

The chancellor also criticised Russia's allies, expressing frustration during recent discussions with China. He pointed to Vladimir Putin's repeated aggression as proof that diplomacy cannot advance while fighting continues.

The municipal elections in Hesse will proceed on 17 March with 4.7 million eligible participants. Merz's firm stance on Russia reflects his broader foreign policy approach, tying security concerns to domestic political messaging. For now, talks with Moscow remain off the table without a halt to hostilities.