BERLIN, Germany – July 4, 2025 – Germany is casting strong doubts on whether Donald Trump can serve as a peace broker for the conflict in Ukraine. Chancellor Friedrich Merz sees a direct link between Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump and the subsequent massive aerial attacks on Ukraine.
Merkel’s Allegation: A Pattern of Escalation
The Chancellor has consistently stated in recent days “that there is a pattern with the Russian president and that phone calls are usually followed by even harsher attacks,” according to government spokesman Stefan Kornelius in Berlin. “What happened last night supported or reinforced this impression,” he said.
Kornelius asserted that the massive attacks on Ukraine following the phone call speak for themselves. He expressed hope that this would contribute to “a decision-making process regarding the stance towards Russia, especially concerning sanctions.” So far, U.S. President Trump has not adhered to EU requests to tighten sanctions against Russia.
Extensive Russian Air Assault on Ukraine
Russia attacked the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, with dozens of combat drones. “According to preliminary information, we have several fires in the Solomyanka district,” wrote military administration chief Tymur Tkachenko on Telegram. All fires involved residential buildings, and one man was injured. Damage caused by drones was also discovered in at least four other districts. Anti-aircraft fire was heard in the city area for hours.
According to the Ukrainian Air Force, the Russian military fired 550 drones and missiles. Of 539 drones launched by Russia, 268 were intercepted, and two of eleven missiles were destroyed. The Russian army also launched at least one Kinzhal (Dagger) hypersonic missile.
Ballistic and cruise missiles were also fired in several waves toward targets in Kyiv and the surrounding area. Unconfirmed reports suggest a primary target was the Vasylkiv military air base south of the three-million-strong city.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha also viewed the renewed attacks as a clear sign that Moscow has no interest in peace. “Immediately after Putin spoke with President Trump,” Sybiha wrote on social media on Friday. “And he is doing this deliberately. Putin is clearly demonstrating his complete disregard for the United States and all those who call for an end to the war.” Ukraine has resisted Russia’s war of aggression for more than three years and has consistently urged its Western allies to strengthen their air defenses.
