Merz urges US to avoid surprises ahead of Ukraine peace talks

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged the United States to avoid surprises ahead of expected peace talks to end the Russia-Ukraine war, warning against a repeat of the "Anchorage moment." Speaking Friday in Dublin before an informal EU summit, Merz said some leaders fear the talks could mirror the Trump-Putin summit in Anchorage. He called on Washington to act as part of "Team Europe" and "Team Ukraine." Merz said peace negotiations are expected to begin in coming weeks after US-Russia meetings in Abu Dhabi, with European participation for the first time. He rejected Russian calls to center talks on European security architecture, citing NATO's existing role, and stressed that discussions should focus on guaranteeing Ukraine's security after peace is achieved.