German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, speaking at the CDU's "Cafe Kyiv" forum in Berlin, urged for increased pressure on Russia to end its invasion of Ukraine. Merz emphasized that the war will only cease when Russia finds it no longer viable, citing the need to prevent territorial gains and make the costs of the conflict prohibitively high. He condemned Russia's conduct as barbaric and a violation of human rights, warning that President Putin's ambitions likely extend beyond Ukraine, evidenced by provocations in the Baltics and hybrid attacks across Europe. Merz reaffirmed Germany's commitment to supporting Ukraine, highlighting nearly €40 billion in civilian aid and over €50 billion in military assistance provided since the war began.