'US Is Playing You and Us Both'—German Chancellor’s Call to Zelensky Leaked

Germany: A few days ago, the leak of a call—which exposed the shaky foundation of diplomacy between Europe and the US—has once again attracted attention. In this call, Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that he would have to be extremely careful in the coming days. “The Americans are playing games with both of you—with you as well as with us,” he had said. 

A call leaked—why is there such a stir?

The reported talks between prominent European leaders, including German Chancellor Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron, raised fears that the US—which many countries have until now considered a strong ally of Ukraine—could leave behind further scars. Macron reportedly said that if security guarantees and the status of the area were not clarified in US talks, "Ukraine may have to give up its territory."

Fear, mistrust and European anxiety

This leaked call has created a situation of fear and distrust in European diplomatic corridors. The call not only warned Zelensky but also said that he himself was not out of check—that is, the United States he trusted was too. Many leaders described the recent activities of American envoys as suspicious, which were said to involve some kind of secret talks between Russia and America. 

What is the reason for Europe's change in stance on the Russia-Ukraine crisis?

Actually, this call has been leaked at a time when America has presented a new proposal—a peace agreement. But European countries collectively say the proposal misses important points like security guarantees against Russia, Ukraine's fundamental stance, and its sovereignty.
For this reason, many European leaders are worried that Ukraine's interests may be sacrificed in America's haste.

Impact of leaked call—trust is breaking

This leaked call has not only created a stir in the diplomatic circles but has also created doubt among many common people. Many are asking—if global powers can't trust each other, how can civilians, war victims, and the world's small nations remain safe?

For Ukraine, this leaked call could mean not only war but also testimony to insecurity—with guarantees that are not written anywhere, making it difficult to rely on mere words.