Europe is still far from any discussion of troops to Ukraine, as the main priority remains the achievement of unconditional ceasefire from Russia, German Chancellor Friedrich Mertz, and Italian Prime Minister, said on Saturday.

“The next step should be to clarify a form that peace talks could take, as well as the type of security guarantees necessary for Ukraine,” Merz said, noting that these issues are still unclear.

“There is no reason to talk about troops right now, we are far from something. We want the use of weapons to stop, to stop bloodshed … These are the issues that concern us now, not others, “he added.

The statements were made on the day after the meeting of the leaders of France, Germany, Poland, Britain and Ukraine, on the sidelines of the Summit in Albania, during which European leaders discussed the situation in the field and contacted US President Donald. Trump announced that he will talk to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday.

Melona did not attend the meeting of European leaders, which described Italian media as “deliberate exception”, attributing it to Emmanuel Macron’s political decision. She said on Saturday that Italy is open to any international format it seeks to end the war, while warning against divisions in the West.

“The unity of the West was our biggest weapon since the beginning of the Russian invasion,” he said. “At such a critical juncture, it is important to put aside personal differences that can undermine it.”

‘Under Expectations’ Talks in Istanbul

Mertz described Thursday’s talks in Constantinople as “lower expectations”, despite the constructive attitude of Ukrainian negotiators. The EU It is preparing a new package of sanctions against Russia, in an effort to increase pressure after failing to ensure a ceasefire, although Moscow has agreed to continue contacts.

Mertz’s attitude on troops are aligned with that of his predecessor, Olf Saltz, who also emphasized peace initiatives instead of military involvement.

British Prime Minister Kir Starmer has previously expressed the willingness to send peace forces, but only if they are accompanied by security guarantees from the United States.

Russia has repeatedly rejected any possibility of NATO troops on Ukrainian territory.