Merz faces party criticism over Ukraine strategy as Laschet urges diplomatic approach

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz faces criticism from within his own party over his handling of EU-Ukraine funding, with senior CDU politician Armin Laschet urging a more diplomatic approach. Laschet said Merz's demand linking Ukraine support to EU budget approval was legitimate but needed more finesse. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico accused Merz of "blackmail" after the chancellor demanded all EU members contribute to Ukraine support. Laschet acknowledged that Ukraine support decisions fall under national jurisdiction, and noted that replacing Hungary's Viktor Orbán with Péter Magyar has not created EU consensus on Ukraine. The discussion also addressed EU peace negotiation strategy, with experts noting Russia's Vladimir Putin has exploited European disunity. Laschet criticized the EU Commission for focusing too heavily on military solutions, while security expert Christian Mölling said the EU lacks a negotiator authorized to commit funds or troops.