Germany urges Russia to end war

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to stop attacking Ukraine and agree to an immediate ceasefire.

Speaking at a summit in Paris alongside French, British and Ukrainian leaders, Mr Merz said Western allies would increase pressure on Moscow while continuing strong military aid for Kyiv.

The German leader said European nations were not trying to extend the fighting, but wanted to force Russia back to peace talks.

He told reporters the time had come for Moscow to end unnecessary bloodshed and negotiate a serious peace deal.