Germany reaffirms support for Zelenskyy amid Trump's calls for his removal

Germany has reaffirmed its support for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy following calls from US President Donald Trump for his removal. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that Berlin remains by the side of Ukraine and its government, expressing full support for the president in his difficult duties.

This stance, articulated during a meeting of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leadership under Chancellor Friedrich Merz, highlights a growing diplomatic rift between Berlin and Washington. Wadephul urged for increased pressure on Russia to facilitate the resumption of peace talks.

Similarly, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham expressed ‘total solidarity’ with Zelenskyy. Following a conversation between the two leaders regarding the necessity of pressuring Russia, Downing Street indicated that the UK will continue to strengthen sanctions and measures to limit the Russian war machine. This diplomatic activity follows an escalation in Russian attacks, including a strike on a residential complex in Zaporizhzhia that reportedly killed 20 people.