Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has voiced support for creating a new “contact group” consisting of Ukraine’s key European allies that could operate independently of the United States if needed. The group, as envisioned by Merz, would include countries such as France, the United Kingdom, and Poland to help coordinate a comprehensive peace plan for Ukraine.
During a meeting with Merz, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed support for the proposal and suggested that Denmark, known for its strong military backing of Ukraine, also join the initiative. Zelenskyy welcomed the idea of a dedicated framework of European allies working together to achieve a “just and lasting peace in Ukraine.”
The proposal takes on heightened relevance as Donald Trump prepares for his return to the White House in January. Trump’s anticipated presidency has sparked uncertainty over the future of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. Comprising over 50 nations offering military support for Ukraine, the group has operated under the leadership of outgoing U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin with regular meetings at Germany’s Ramstein Air Base. Trump has controversially claimed that he could end the war in Ukraine “in a day,” but European leaders are concerned that his approach may pressure Kyiv into unacceptable concessions, such as relinquishing territory or forgoing NATO membership.
If Merz becomes Germany’s chancellor, he is expected to be a closer ally to Zelenskyy than current Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Merz has long advocated for ramping up military support to Ukraine, including delivering long-range Taurus cruise missiles—something Scholz has consistently resisted, citing fears of escalation. In contrast, Zelenskyy has been openly critical of Scholz’s stance, particularly after Scholz’s call with Russian President Vladimir Putin in November, which Zelenskyy argued undermined efforts to diplomatically isolate Russia. Following the call, Russia intensified its attacks on civilian targets in Ukraine.
Merz’s visit to Kyiv on Monday marked a significant gesture of support and came just a week after Scholz made a surprise trip to the Ukrainian capital. During his visit, Scholz announced a military aid package worth €650 million to assist Ukraine’s defense efforts. While welcomed by Ukrainian officials, Merz’s vision for deepened European leadership on Ukraine could mark a shift in strategy if he assumes the chancellery.
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