German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that Germany is prepared to send troops to Ukraine as part of a European-led multinational coalition, emphasizing that the mission would not be under U.S. leadership. Speaking to state broadcaster ZDF, Merz said Berlin supports a 'coalition of the willing' that could include European nations along with Canada, Australia, and others.

The statement followed two days of talks in Berlin involving Ukraine, the United States, and several European countries, where participants discussed forming a European-led force to assist Ukrainian defense operations and secure air and maritime zones. Merz suggested such a deployment could help secure a ceasefire with Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously rejected any foreign troop presence in Ukraine, but Merz noted that Moscow has sometimes reversed earlier refusals.

Analysts say Germany’s stance signals a shift toward stronger European strategic autonomy in the Ukraine conflict. Further consultations are expected among EU and NATO partners to define the coalition’s scope and mandate.