The President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated the leader of the German conservatives Friedrich Merz on Sunday. Zelensky wrote on Twitter: "I congratulate Friedrich Merz on his election as the chairman of the Christian Democratic Union. I see him as a strong partner of Ukraine. I propose to continue strengthening our relations, a strong and energetic partner of Ukraine."
The Christian Democratic Union announced Merz's victory in the elections for the leadership position on Saturday. This marked the end of Angela Merkel's era, who had led the party for 18 years. Merz is seen as a supporter of a tougher stance towards Russia. "We must fight for freedom, the rule of law, human dignity, and the independence of our country," Merz stated after his victory.
