CDU Urges Scholz to Include Merz in Upcoming Ukraine Summit

In light of the ongoing crisis involving Ukraine and the United States, Olaf Scholz, the current Chancellor of Germany, is facing calls from the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) to include Friedrich Merz, his likely successor, in the upcoming Ukraine summit in London. This summit, hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, will gather European heads of state to discuss critical issues related to the conflict.

Recent tensions escalated following a contentious exchange between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former U.S. President Donald Trump during a meeting at the White House, prompting immediate discussions between Scholz and Merz. CDU foreign and security expert Roderich Kiesewetter has emphasized the importance of Scholz taking Merz to all international meetings, mirroring the collaboration between former Chancellor Angela Merkel and Scholz during the 2021 transition.

In 2021, Merkel included Scholz, who was then serving as Minister of Finance and Vice Chancellor, in significant international discussions, notably at the G-20 summit. However, the current situation is markedly different, as Merz is not yet in official office.

The summit in London is set to feature not only European leaders but also NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President António Costa. Ahead of the summit, Starmer will also engage in discussions with Zelensky and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

Kiesewetter has voiced his concerns regarding Trump's recent remarks about Ukraine, suggesting they reflect a troubling shift in U.S. policy that could undermine support for Ukraine against Russian aggression. He described Trump's comments as indicative of a change in U.S. public sentiment that could jeopardize Ukraine's standing as an ally.

Further, Kiesewetter warned that the implications of Trump's statements could signal a crisis for Germany, requiring a reassessment of the country's response to the evolving geopolitical landscape. He underscored the urgency for Germany to recognize the gravity of the situation, suggesting that it may be necessary to declare a state of emergency or establish a special fund to address the escalating threats.

As the international community watches closely, the upcoming summit in London will be a pivotal moment for European leaders to reaffirm their commitment to Ukraine amid shifting political dynamics.