For two days, Berlin was the center of international efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Chancellor Merz (CDU) then spoke of a “real chance” for peace.

All events surrounding the war in Ukraine and security policy in Europe in the live ticker:

10:56 a.m. – Pistorius: Ukraine plan essentially good

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has praised the Berlin Ukraine talks with Europeans and the USA. The result must now be viewed in the light of the reaction, especially from Moscow, said the SPD politician on the sidelines of the launch of the new “Sea Tiger” helicopter in Berlin on Tuesday. It was crucial that the discussions took place with the participation of the most crucial European partners and the USA and that a plan was drawn up. “I think he’s good at his core.” Now we have to wait and see the reactions from Washington and especially from Moscow. Only when Russian President Vladimir Putin says “where he wants to go” will we see anything further.

The minister further explained that concrete determinations regarding Germany’s participation in security guarantees are currently not possible. This involved questions such as a possible mandate from the Bundestag or the future command structure.

10:44 a.m. – Security expert assesses results cautiously

Security expert Claudia Major gave a cautious assessment of the results of the Ukraine talks in Berlin. “It is actually progress that there is a concerted position between the Ukrainians, the Europeans and the USA. We didn’t have that before,” said the political scientist on Tuesday in the ARD “Morgenmagazin”. However, previous negotiations have “always failed due to the Russian willingness” to “enter” into a ceasefire and a peace process.

Major also sees no real progress with regard to security guarantees for Kiev, which Chancellor Friedrich Merz described as “really remarkable”. This idea is “not new,” she said on ARD. It has now been included in the final document from Monday. But there are “no security guarantees like we know in NATO,” emphasized Major. “It is support. But it is not a legally binding obligation to defend Ukraine in the event of a new attack.”

10:17 a.m. – Laschet sees meaningful progress after Berlin Ukraine talks

The chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the Bundestag, Armin Laschet (CDU), sees significant progress after the Berlin negotiations on a peace plan for Ukraine. “We have never been this far to achieve peace,” said laschet on Deutschlandfunk. The Europeans have now presented their own plan. Whether this will lead to a ceasefire is an open question and depends on Moscow’s reaction.

The USA did not sign the European text, said the CDU foreign policy expert. But Laschet viewed the fact that Washington’s two most important chief negotiators, Steve Witkoff and jared Kushner, were present at the meeting in the Chancellery on Monday as “a certain guarantee that this direction will now also be discussed with moscow.”

10:00 a.m. – Odessa Governor: 280,000 households still without power

In the Odessa region of southern Ukraine, authorities say more than 280,000 households are still without power following recent Russian attacks. Regional Governor Oleh Kiper explains that power has been restored to almost 330,000 households in the region in the past three days. The region, located on the Black Sea coast, experienced one of the worst Russian attacks on the power grid during the nearly four-year war over t

ukraine Peace Talks Show Promise: Key Developments – December 15th

10:03 p.m. – Europeans End Ukraine Meeting,Praise Trump’s Efforts

European heads of state and government concluded their meeting on Ukraine in Berlin,releasing a joint statement praising US President Donald Trump for his efforts to end the war. The statement reaffirmed that Ukraine deserves a sovereign future “free from the fear of future Russian aggression.” Signatories included Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Denmark’s Prime Minister mette Frederiksen, Finland’s President Alexander Stubb, France’s President Emmanuel macron, Italy’s Prime Minister giorgia Meloni, the Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Great Britain’s Prime Minister Keir starmer, President of the European Council Antonio Costa, and President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen.

9:42 p.m. – Trump Believes Peace is Closer Than Ever

US President Donald Trump also expressed optimism about a potential agreement in the Ukraine war, stating his team reported progress following talks in Berlin.

8:04 p.m. – “Multinational Force for ukraine” Proposed

Ukraine’s European allies have proposed a “multinational force” to secure a potential peace deal. A joint statement indicated agreement between the US and European leaders to collaborate on providing Ukraine with security guarantees and economic reconstruction support. The European-led force, backed by the US, would focus on regenerating Ukraine’s armed forces, securing its airspace and seas, including operations within Ukraine.

7:07 p.m. – Merz Calls for Christmas Ceasefire

Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to enact a ceasefire in Ukraine over the Christmas period, stating, “Perhaps the Russian government has some remaining human decency and will at least leave the population alone for a few days with this terror over Christmas.” The statement was made during a press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

5:54 p.m. – Merz Sees “Real Chance” for Peace

Following the talks in Berlin, Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated there is now a “real chance” for peace, albeit a “small” one. Discussions centered on security guarantees, territorial issues, and an effective ceasefire monitoring mechanism. “We all know the price of war, now it is indeed time to talk to each other about the price of peace,” Merz said alongside President Zelensky.

5:25 p.m. – Utilizing Russian Assets a “Key Question”

Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed his intention to “make use” of frozen Russian state assets during the German-Ukrainian Economic forum.

Large Police Presence for Zelensky Visit to Berlin

published: 2025/12/16 11:31:38

Zelensky’s visit and Security Measures

A significant security operation is underway in berlin as Ukrainian President volodymyr zelenskyy visits to discuss a potential end to the war in Ukraine. Approximately 3,600 police officers from across Germany are providing protection during his visit and subsequent discussions.

Extensive Police Deployment

According to Berlin Police Chief Barbara Slowik Meisel, officers from nearly all German federal states, along with the Federal Police, are supporting the Berlin police force. This large-scale deployment underscores the importance placed on ensuring the safety and security of the Ukrainian President and accompanying delegations.

Threat Level Assessment

Despite the robust security measures, authorities have assessed the threat level as “0,” which, while still above the standard security level for high-ranking state guests, indicates a currently low risk. This assessment doesn’t diminish the comprehensive security protocols in place.

logistical Challenges

The visit presented some logistical challenges due to the late announcement of Zelenskyy’s arrival. The federal government confirmed his presence only the evening before, requiring police officers to be called in from off-duty status to manage the increased security demands.Along with President Zelenskyy, security details are also assigned to 13 other delegations.

Security Protocols in Place

Security precautions include the closure of streets and areas in the government district and around hotels. These measures are designed to minimize potential risks and ensure a secure surroundings for the President and all participants in the discussions.

Key Takeaways

• Approximately 3,600 police officers are securing President Zelenskyy’s visit to Berlin.
• The current threat level is assessed as “0,” indicating a low risk.
• The late announcement of the visit created logistical challenges for security personnel.
• Extensive security measures, including street closures, are in effect.