Politics

Merz says Germany is nobody’s ‘pawn’ in New Year message, Putin keeps it low key

Michał Woźniak
 31.12.2025, 09:46
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Russian President Vladimir Putin delivering New Year’s Eve addresses to their respective nations. Photos: Clemens Bilan - Pool/Getty Images; kremlin.ru
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Russian President Vladimir Putin delivering New Year’s Eve addresses to their respective nations. Photos: Clemens Bilan - Pool/Getty Images; kremlin.ru

Since taking office in May, Merz has helped spearhead European efforts to support Ukraine against Russia's invasion.