German adviser urges Trump: no Ukraine surprises in talks with Putin in China

German adviser Friedrich Merz today urged US President Donald Trump not to introduce any surprises regarding Ukraine during the expected talks next week with Russian President Vladimir Putin in China.

Speaking on the sidelines of a European Union leaders’ meeting, Merz said, “Some here in Dublin fear this could turn into a second Anchorage,” referring to the city that previously hosted a meeting between Trump and Putin.

He added, “Therefore, I want to send our message to the United States very clearly: Please, no surprises. Continue to play as part of Team Europe and Team Ukraine.”

Earlier, Merz linked Ukraine funding to the upcoming long-term EU budget negotiations in a message to Costa, prompting objections from governments reluctant to make further financial commitments.

Merz said Germany, the largest contributor to the EU budget, “cannot accept countries benefiting from support for Ukraine and European security without sharing their fair share of the burden.”