Merz Says the U.S. Is No Longer Funding Ukraine’s Defense

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said European countries and other non-U.S. allies are now financing Ukraine’s defense and military equipment without Washington’s contribution. He described the burden as substantial and said Europe would continue supporting Kyiv until the war ends. Merz warned that Russia’s aims extend beyond Ukraine’s territory, arguing that Moscow also seeks to undermine European democracy and stability. His remarks describe a shift in who pays for Ukraine’s defense, not the end of all U.S. involvement: Washington remains engaged in diplomacy, though support and coordination have become contentious.