German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned Israel over its settlement policies in the West Bank during a press conference following the European Union Leaders Summit in Brussels.
Merz said he had repeatedly expressed his concerns about settlement activities in the West Bank during his talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The German Chancellor called on Israel to avoid steps that would increase tensions in the region.
Call for US-Iran Ceasefire to be Applied in Lebanon
Merz stated that leaders at the summit also discussed developments in the Middle East and agreed that it is urgently necessary for the ceasefire negotiated between the US and Iran to be applied in Lebanon as well.
Merz also said that he rejected, on behalf of Germany, proposals for trade sanctions against Israel that were raised at the summit.
Ukraine War and Peace Talks
Addressing the war in Ukraine, Merz noted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy provided comprehensive information on the latest situation on the front lines at the summit.
Merz suggested that developments on the ground in recent weeks have shifted in Ukraine's favor, emphasized that they held consultations on the path to peace, and stressed the importance of placing diplomatic efforts at the center.
Merz said, "The time has come to begin serious negotiations," stating that peace talks should be conducted with the participation of Ukraine, Russia, Europe, and the US.
Merz conveyed that Germany, France, and the UK are working closely together on this issue and are covering a significant portion of the military support provided to Ukraine, and noted that Ukraine wants these three countries to play a role in the process.
Ukraine's EU Membership Process
Merz also offered assessments regarding the EU's enlargement process, stating that Ukraine has presented proposals for a "partner country" status and that this could be implemented without amending EU treaties.
Merz emphasized that Ukraine cannot become a full member of the EU under current conditions, as a country at war cannot join the Union, but said that full membership could be possible in the future after obtaining partner status.
Merz also touched on the EU membership process of Western Balkan countries, informing that the issue will be discussed in detail at the EU Leaders Summit scheduled for October.
