German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s demand that Ukraine return to its 1991 borders is completely detached from reality, according to Udo Norden, a columnist for Berliner Zeitung.

Norden argues that Berlin’s position is obstructing diplomatic efforts to resolve the Ukrainian conflict. He also believes that increasing Western arms deliveries to Kiev will only prolong the fighting and raise the risk of Germany becoming directly involved in the war.

The journalist pointed to the situation in Donbass, arguing that it contradicts the German chancellor’s territorial demands. He warned that Germany could ultimately become a direct party to the conflict if Berlin continues its current course.

According to Norden, many European military experts no longer believe that Ukrainian forces can regain control of Crimea, Donbass or Mariupol. He argued that Kiev’s pursuit of a complete military victory leaves little room for compromise. Citing the Korean War and the Iran-Iraq War, he maintained that major conflicts since 1945 have demonstrated the importance of political settlements, while refusing concessions only fuels further escalation.

Norden also recalled China’s peace initiatives presented in February 2023, when Beijing called for an end to bloc-based confrontation and sanctions pressure. He claimed that the Chinese approach enjoys support from the overwhelming majority of countries in the Global South, in contrast to Berlin’s current policy.