Chancellor Merz Expresses Skepticism on US-Ukraine Peace Plan, Reflects on 'Stadtbild' Migration Comments

Merz Questions US-Ukraine Peace Plan Details

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed reservations about specific aspects of the proposed US-Ukraine peace plan during a high-level meeting in London on December 8, 2025. Attending alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and French President Emmanuel Macron, Merz stated he was 'sceptical about some of the details in documents coming from the US side'. He emphasized the gravity of the moment, noting that 'this could be a decisive time for all of us'.

The discussions in London followed earlier reports of a US peace plan that, in its initial unconfirmed version, contained conditions widely criticized as unfavorable to Ukraine. These reportedly included demands for Ukraine to withdraw troops from the Donetsk and Luhansk regions and to enshrine a neutral status, effectively banning NATO membership. This original proposal was labeled by some as a 'Russian wish list'. While the plan has since undergone revisions, with President Zelenskyy indicating that 20 points have been agreed upon, sensitive issues such as territorial integrity and security guarantees reportedly remain points of contention. Chancellor Merz has previously stressed that any lasting peace agreement must have the explicit consent of both Ukraine and European nations.

Self-Criticism on 'Stadtbild' Migration Debate

In a separate development, Chancellor Merz reflected on his controversial 'Stadtbild' (cityscape) comments regarding migration, which ignited a significant public debate in Germany in October 2025. The initial remarks, made during a press conference, linked 'problems in the townscape' to irregular migration and the need for deportations.

The comments drew sharp criticism from opposition parties, including the Green and Left parties, and even some members of his own Christian Democratic Union (CDU), who accused him of using 'racist' and 'discriminatory' rhetoric reminiscent of the far-right AfD party. Merz initially defended his statements, famously suggesting critics 'ask your daughters' what he might have meant. However, he later clarified his position, stating that he was referring to:

• Migrants without residence permits
• Individuals who do not adhere to existing rules
• Impacts on public spaces such as train stations, subways, and parks

Merz acknowledged the importance of immigrant communities, stating that Germany 'simply cannot do without them anymore, no matter where they come from, what colour their skin is'. The debate unfolded amidst rising support for the AfD and ongoing discussions about Germany's migration policies.

Broader Implications

Chancellor Merz's recent statements underscore Germany's complex diplomatic and domestic challenges. His cautious stance on the US-Ukraine peace plan highlights European concerns about the terms of a potential settlement and the need for Ukrainian and European consent. Simultaneously, his nuanced reflection on the 'Stadtbild' comments indicates an attempt to navigate the contentious migration debate while addressing public concerns and criticism.