Russia is a European country and the EU will need to restore balance in relations with it. This was stated by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
"If we manage to achieve the return of peace and freedom to Europe, if we finally find a balance again in relations with our largest European neighbor, namely with Russia, if peace reigns, if freedom is ensured — if we succeed in all this, then the EU, then we in Germany will pass the next test and we will be able to look to the future with confidence even after 2026," Merz said at a New Year's reception, addressing business representatives in Halle.
He also said that he considers Russia a European country, and noted that his words are not related to the fact that he speaks in the East of Germany. According to him, he would have made the same statements in any other part of the country.
Recall that Germany is strongly condemns Russia for its actions in Ukraine and strongly supports Kiev. In addition, Merz previously advocated inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia and strengthening military support for the Kiev regime.

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