Merkel in favor of "continued partnership with Russia"

Merkel in favor of "continued partnership with Russia"

FRANKFURT -- Angela Merkel is in favor of continued partnership with Russia, criticizes the annexation of Crimea, and dismisses criticism of EU's Ukraine policy.

The German chancellor rejected the possibility of increasing her country's military budget or introducing "compulsory military service," stating that the Ukrainian problem can only be resolved through diplomatic means.

"We and Russia, without a doubt, have deep differences of opinion. Despite this I am convinced that in the mid and long term, we should continue a close partnership with Russia," Merkel told the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.

She criticized "the annexation of Crimea" as being "contrary to international law," and described the Russian policy as a return to the thinking of spheres of influence from the 19th century.

Despite all that, Merkel said she saw no reason or need for "a brand new start of a new German eastern policy" adding she believed that the problem must be solved by diplomatic rather than military means.

"The crisis cannot be solved by military means," said Merkel, adding that people in Germany this year, as they mark the beginning the First World War and events from the Second World War, "rightly expect that we today, for example, remain willing to talk with Russia."

Merkel did not discuss the details of possible sanctions against Russia, but said she was working to make sure Ukraine's presidential elections are held as scheduled on May 25, "despite the difficulties."