Zelenskyy's Surprise Berlin Visit: Talks with Merz Ahead of US-Russia 2026

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to make an unexpected visit to Berlin for talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, ahead of next week's trilateral talks with Russia and the US in Abu Dhabi. The visit, confirmed by Merz during an industry speech, underscores the urgency of coordinating Europe's position before critical negotiations.

The rumours about Zelenskyy's potential visit started swirling last night, but the Ukrainian president's trips are usually kept secret until the last moment for security reasons. Merz confirmed the visit on Friday morning, saying Zelenskyy would arrive just after midday.

Why the Visit Matters

Zelenskyy's surprise visit to Berlin comes at a pivotal moment in the war in Ukraine. With trilateral talks with Russia and the US scheduled in Abu Dhabi next week, the Ukrainian leader is seeking to shore up European support and ensure that Ukraine's interests are represented.

Germany has been a key ally of Ukraine, providing military and financial aid. However, the visit also highlights the delicate balance Merz must strike in supporting Ukraine while maintaining dialogue with Russia and the US.

Merz's Defence Spending Push

In his speech, Merz said the German push to rapidly increase its defence spending last year was triggered by the scenes in the Oval Office during Zelenskyy's meeting with Trump. "What we experienced last year … led me to conclude that we must ensure, on our own, that we are capable of defending ourselves in Europe," he said.

Merz added that this was not meant to question NATO, but strengthen it. "We are making NATO more European so it can remain transatlantic," he said. This statement reflects a growing sentiment in Europe that the continent must take more responsibility for its own security.

The Shadow of the Oval Office Showdown

Recalling the infamous showdown between Zelenskyy and Trump at the White House last year, Merz said: "He'll be here with me just after midday, and things will be a bit different then." The remark suggests that Merz aims to avoid a repeat of the tense exchange, which strained US-Ukraine relations.

The Oval Office incident, where Trump and Zelenskyy clashed over military aid, led to concerns about US commitment to Ukraine. Merz's comments indicate that Germany is stepping up to fill any potential void.

What to Watch Next

The trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi will be closely watched for any signs of progress in ending the war. Zelenskyy's Berlin visit is likely to focus on coordinating a unified European stance ahead of those talks.

Meanwhile, Sweden is expected to hold a second parliamentary vote on the new government, which is expected to fail once again, 51 days after elections. In Spain, transport minister Óscar Puente will present new ideas on reforming high-speed rail after last week's train derailment. The background to this story is set out in German Chancellor Merz Faces Critical Test in State Elections. A related thread runs through German Chancellor Merz Faces Political Crisis After State Election. Earlier coverage in German Chancellor Merz Vows to Stay After AfD State Election Win shows how the argument developed.

Key Takeaways

• Zelenskyy's unexpected Berlin visit signals urgency in coordinating Europe's position before US-Russia talks.
• Merz confirmed the visit, noting it will be "a bit different" from the Oval Office showdown.
• Germany's defence spending increase was influenced by the Oval Office incident, according to Merz.
• The visit highlights Europe's push for greater self-reliance in defence while strengthening NATO.
• Trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi next week will be a critical test for diplomacy.

Comparing Defence Spending: Germany vs. Other NATO Members

Germany's decision to boost defence spending marks a significant shift in its policy. The table below compares Germany's defence budget with other key NATO members (approximate figures for 2023). A closer look at the same subject appears in Germany's Political Crisis: Friedrich Merz and the Rise of AfD. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Friedrich Merz Faces AfD Surge as Germany's Coalition Crumbles. The same theme surfaces in Merz Faces Leadership Crisis After CDU Election Disaster in Germany, which takes a different angle.

Germany's spending is set to increase significantly in the coming years, aiming to meet NATO's 2% target. This shift is part of a broader European effort to bolster defence capabilities. Context on how this played out before sits in Merz Vows to Stay After CDU State Election Disaster.

FAQ

The political drama in Berlin echoes other high-stakes moments in global politics. For instance, the recent Berlin Pride attack exposed Germany's queer hypocrisy, as discussed in this analysis: Berlin Pride Attack Exposes Germany's Queer Hypocrisy. Such incidents highlight the complexities of Germany's social and political landscape.

As Zelenskyy's visit unfolds, the world will be watching closely. The outcome of the talks could shape the future of European security and the war in Ukraine. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether diplomacy can prevail.