Ukraine Watches as Merz Meets Trump Amidst Ongoing Conflict and Differing Diplomatic Approaches

Amidst ongoing conflict, Ukrainians anxiously await the outcome of German Chancellor Merz's meeting with US President Trump. The meeting holds significant weight, as both nations are key supporters of Ukraine. However, recent phone calls between Trump and Putin, and Pope Leo XIV and Putin, reveal differing approaches to resolving the conflict, with no immediate breakthroughs. A reporter in Kyiv captures the mood on the ground: "There's great interest here, as the two largest supporting countries meet in America. One recalls with horror how the Ukrainian President's meeting with President Trump in Washington was canceled." Despite the high-level discussions, daily attacks on Ukrainian cities and regions continue. The reporter adds, "There's great concern that a large-scale Russian military strike is imminent, even though it hasn't happened yet. But the nightly attacks continue, resulting in casualties." The situation remains tense, with hopes pinned on diplomatic efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution.