Europe is "not making enough diplomatic efforts" regarding Russia and should do more while also increasing its support for Ukraine.
Merkel made the remarks at the WDR European Forum during the digital conference Republica, according to Ukrinform.
Merkel called on Europe to "make greater diplomatic efforts" in Russia's war against Ukraine and to "have more confidence in its own strength."
"Underestimating Putin and the mistakes of the Europeans now would be just as much of a mistake. And not trusting ourselves would be equally wrong. And what is our goal in this conflict? In my opinion, the goal is that at the end of it there is a Ukraine that can freely make its own decisions. Personally, I believe it is absolutely right what we have done in terms of military support. I also think it is right that we are doing much more for deterrence than simply supporting Ukraine. I regret that, in my opinion, Europe is not sufficiently using its diplomatic potential," Merkel said.
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