President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Germany’s newly appointed Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, Johann Wadephul, who arrived in Kyiv on his first visit since taking office.
“We are grateful to the Chancellor, his team, and the people of Germany for their unwavering support of Ukrainians since the beginning of this war. Indeed, Germany is currently providing the largest support among European countries. And after this year's increase, it will be around €9 billion. This is a truly substantial assistance,” the Head of State noted.
The Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs reaffirmed that Germany would continue to stand by Ukraine. Johann Wadephul also emphasized the need to intensify pressure on Russia in order to force it to engage in peace negotiations. The essential sanctions decisions targeting the energy and banking sectors, the shadow tanker fleet, and a reduction in the oil price cap were among the main topics discussed.
“We are taking appropriate steps. The 18th sanctions package is an example of that. We aim to convince all our European partners to make this package truly effective – and our American colleagues as well – so that the United States also takes the necessary measures,” he stated.
The parties devoted significant attention to the protection of Ukrainian lives amid intensified Russian drone and missile attacks. Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that Germany has already made a significant contribution to strengthening Ukraine’s air defense and is ready to do even more. The discussions included the potential supply of additional IRIS-T systems to defend against Russian missiles and the financing of Ukrainian production of interceptors to counter Shahed drones.
The meeting was also attended by representatives of five German defense companies, three of which are already operating in Ukraine. The parties discussed expanding defense cooperation and joint weapons production.
“This is an important partnership for us. We will continue to develop this military hub – both in Ukraine and beyond,” the Head of State said.
Additionally, the discussion touched on Ukraine’s EU accession talks and the importance of NATO membership. Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised Germany’s stance at the NATO Summit in The Hague – that Ukraine must become a member of the Alliance, as it is in the security interests of all of Europe.
