BERLIN

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will visit Washington on Monday to join Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other European leaders for critical discussions with US President Donald Trump, the German government announced Sunday.

"The trip serves as an information exchange with US President Donald Trump after his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska," government spokesman Stefan Kornelius said in a statement.

“Chancellor Merz will discuss the current peace efforts with the heads of state and government and underscore Germany's interest in a swift peace agreement,” he added.

According to Kornelius, the talks will focus on several key issues, including security guarantees, territorial questions, and "continued support for Ukraine in defending against Russian aggression."

The spokesman added that the leaders will also discuss ways to "maintain the pressure of sanctions" against Russia to motivate Moscow toward a diplomatic solution.